The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) welcomes the announcement by the Government of Canada that, as part of its new international education strategy, it will invest in a new outbound mobility program to fund up to 11,000 more Canadians to study and work abroad. This five year pilot program will provide financial support in the range of $5,000 to $10,000 per year.
An investment in Canadians learning abroad has been a priority area for CBIE and its members for many years and, given the tremendous growth in the international education sector, this represents a significant step forward in ensuring that our country thrives socially, culturally and economically for years to come.
“Supporting international learning experiences through study and work integrated learning is one of the best ways to reinforce the values of openness and inclusion that are the hallmark of Canada’s success as a diverse society” said Larissa Bezo, President and CEO of CBIE. “Moreover there is strong evidence that educational mobility produces the greatest benefits among students from less advantaged backgrounds.”
Added Robert Summerby-Murray, CBIE Board Chair: “By making learning abroad financially feasible for Canadians from all socio-economic backgrounds, Canada is moving decisively to prepare Canadians to participate and contribute as global citizens, working across borders, cultures, languages and values to mutual benefit.”
A CBIE survey of 7,000+ Canadian students revealed that 86% of respondents were interested in a learning abroad experience but 80% would require financial assistance to do so.
CBIE is also pleased that the strategy will continue to build on making Canada a top destination for learning by diversifying the countries from which students come to Canada, improving immigration processes and increasing support to Canadian education institutions to grow their partnership opportunities abroad.
For more information:
communication@cbie.ca
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