Immigration Minister Marc Miller has issued a stern warning, stating that Ottawa is prepared to intervene and shut down questionable schools exploiting the international student program if provinces fail to take action. Miller emphasizes the prevalence of issues within the college sector, particularly among private institutions, which he describes as “really bad” actors deserving closure.
While provinces hold primary responsibility for addressing concerns in the post-secondary sector involving international students, Miller asserts that Ottawa stands ready to act if necessary, despite existing “jurisdictional questions.”
A surge in foreign student enrollments has drawn attention to the international student program, prompting the Liberal government to impose a cap on new study permits for the next two years. As part of the solution, Miller highlights the federal government’s initiative to recognize post-secondary institutions meeting higher standards in services, support, and outcomes for international students.