DIVERSEcity staff member Arjun Taneja shares his experiences as an international student
We are very proud of our DIVERSEcity team member Arjun Taneja, who is also currently an international student. Arjun took part in a news conference on January 29, 2024, with the Government of BC and Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills Selina Robinson, who announced the strengthening of standards and new safeguards for international students in BC.
He shared his story about what it’s like to be an international student and the challenges they face.
“I have been fortunate to have a great experience as an international student in BC at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, which offers lots of supports for international students. But some of my friends who have come here and attended some private schools have, unfortunately, had negative experiences. I’m happy to learn that there will be strengthened standards to ensure international students get the education they came to BC for, as many of us are here on our own at a young age and it’s nice to know government is looking out for us while we attend post-secondary.”
In its news release, the province stated its new measures will bring in higher standards and greater accountability for educational institutions in BC. These measures will help ensure the institutions deliver a high-quality education and offer strong supports that students need to study and build a good, successful life in BC.
“International students come here for a good education, but too many are being exploited or taken advantage of,” said Minister Selina Robinson. “That’s why we’re introducing more stringent requirements for institutions and robust safeguards to protect international students against bad actors, provide them with a better path to success, and make sure BC continues to attract the talented students we need to fill significant gaps in the labour market and drive our economy forward.”
The Province also stated it will continue to work with students, institutions and newcomer services to eliminate exploitive practices that hurt international students and BC’s post-secondary education reputation.
As an organization who supports newcomers, including international students through our BC Settlement Services and other programs, DIVERSEcity is looking forward to see the changes that will help protect international students and ensure they receive high-quality education.
Read the full government press release here:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024PSFS0002-000094