Canadian Colleges Welcome Indian Students Amid Rising Tensions

In the wake of a diplomatic crisis between Canada and India, Canadian universities are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of their Indian students. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused the Indian government of involvement in the killing of an Indian separatist leader in Canada. However, India expressed its strong disapproval of the accusation.

Amid tensions, Canadian colleges are gearing up to resume classes, but several students are contemplating postponing their studies. There's also concern about the potential impact of the current crisis on higher education.

India is the most significant contributor to Canada's rapidly expanding international education sector, with approximately 40% of study permit holders hailing from India. This influx of international students contributes significantly, adding over $14.6 billion annually to the Canadian economy.

Professionals in India estimate that more than 100,000 students are currently gearing up for English language tests and arranging their finances in preparation for studying in Canada next year.
Leading universities offer programs with costs reaching up to $29,000 yearly. Some institutions offer lower tuition fees, making them affordable for international students. These educational institutions are reaching out to students to ensure that the ongoing diplomatic disagreement does not harm one of Canada's most prominent exports.

Reuters reporters spoke with representatives of various universities and professionals in Canada and India. They are taking initiatives to ease the fears and to address students' concerns.
Joseph Wong, the Vice President of the University of Toronto, stated that the university is highly dedicated to maintaining strong collaborations with partners in India as they seek to bolster cooperation in the future. He also mentioned that during the 2022-2023 academic year, the University of Toronto welcomed 2,400 students from India.

Canadian universities express optimism that the diplomatic dispute could be temporary. The President of the Association of Consultants for Overseas Studies, Mr. Ashok Kumar Bhatia, feels there is a growing concern among many Indian students regarding their safety.

Conestoga College President John Tibbits mentioned that around 100 new students considered delaying their studies, and some current students enquired and wished to have an online classes option. He highlighted the concern about visa changes and spending $36 million annually to support students.

International education has experienced a robust expansion in recent years, establishing itself as one of Canada's leading exports, surpassing industries like auto parts, building materials, and aeroplanes.

Rhonda Lenton, President of York University, was in India when news of the dispute emerged. She expressed confidence that the two governments would eventually resolve the situation.

However, in the Indian state of Punjab, families and aspiring students are feeling anxious. Approximately 25% of families in the state have a member either studying in Canada or preparing to do so. Notably, over 5,000 students from a single city in Punjab relocated to Canada last year.

Some parents from India also expressed their concerns. Jiwan Sharma, a taxi driver, is reconsidering whether his son should continue with his travel plans to Canada. He shared, "I have invested my life savings, which amount to over 250 million rupees ($4 million), in sending our son to Canada, hoping he would establish himself there and support us in our old age."

As tensions rise, Canada seeks private talks with India over the diplomatic dispute, following India's request to recall 41 diplomats. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly held private discussions with India to address the diplomatic dispute.

In a shared commitment to safeguard the educational journeys of Indian students in Canada, both governments have assured that the ongoing diplomatic dispute will not disrupt their pursuit of knowledge and opportunities. We hope for a resolution and improved relations between the two countries soon.

Note: Nivedita Balu, Wa Lone, and Manoj Kumar contributed to this Reuters story.

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