During the week of November 14-18, Parkland College joined educational institutions from across Canada and over 100 other countries in celebrating the 12th annual International Education Week (IEW).
IEW is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of international education and its significant benefits to our social, economic, and cultural well-being. This year's theme is "Canada Engages with the World: Realizing Our Potential through International Education." It underscores the value that Canadians place on connecting with the world.
Parkland College is continually working on expanding the scope of its International Students program. The initiative began in the 2009-10 academic year when the College welcomed its first learner from abroad - a student from Chile. In 2010-11, the College hosted three international students from India, Brazil and Ukraine. This year, the College received close to 10 applications from international students and selected 11 students from a variety of countries including India, Bangladesh and Nepal.
"Every one of our students comes to Parkland College to find the best educational experience," comments William Litchfield, Director of Advancement. "But these students who travel from abroad are also learning about our local customs. They want to see how we live and what it means to be Canadian. It's that interaction with other students, instructors, and the community as a whole which really enriches the international student's experience."
The current students are enrolled in the Continuing Care Assistant, Business, and Office programs. A few more students are planning to join Parkland meet the same program standards as any other student, along with an English requirement.
International students generate an additional $6.5 billion for the Canadian economy per year. Locally, Parkland College is the only Saskatchewan Regional College authorized to offer the Off-Campus Work Permit Program. The program allows international students to take on part time jobs during the week (to a maximum of 20 hours per week) and full time employment during holidays and breaks.
While studying at Parkland College, many international students choose to live with a local family through the college's homestay program.
"Students are placed with a suitable family in order to make the most of their experience," Litchfield adds.
"It's an effective way of understanding Canadian culture, making new friends and having fun."
The College is always looking for families to host international students. Families interested in learning more are asked to contact William Litchfield at 306.786. 7331.
