In recent years, the sudden increase in the number of international students in Canada has revealed flaws in educational management and led to rising housing costs in major cities. The country’s population growth has been accelerated by the influx of international students, particularly after the Covid-19 pandemic. However, this increase has caused serious issues, including escalating housing costs, strained infrastructure, and low-quality educational programs.
As the number of international students tripled during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s term, concerns have been raised about the rapid expansion of universities and exploitation of vulnerable young individuals. The government is now reevaluating its immigration policies and tightening student visa regulations to control the incoming student flow and combat subpar educational programs.
The majority of Canadian international students come from India and other Asian countries, drawn to the prospect of settling in Canada based on their qualifications. While international students contribute significantly to the economy, the surge in enrollments has overwhelmed the government’s capacity to handle the influx. This has led to increased rents and living expenses in already expensive areas like Brampton and Toronto.
The boom in international student enrollments has prompted educational institutions to expand rapidly, often neglecting housing issues. As a result, many students struggle to find affordable accommodation and jobs, leading to financial hardships. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has implemented new policies to address these challenges, including limiting work permits for joint education programs and regulating the number of incoming students.
The increase in international students is not without its drawbacks, as it has strained infrastructure, exacerbated housing shortages, and raised concerns about the quality of education being provided. While international students are vital to certain sectors of the economy, there is growing recognition of the need to address the systemic issues that have led to this situation. By reevaluating educational practices and tightening immigration policies, the Canadian government aims to create a more sustainable and equitable environment for international students.