To further tap into the estimated $5 billion dollars that international education contributes to Canada’s economy annually, strengthen the workforce and add cultural diversity to the education system, Competitiveness, Training and Trade Minister Andrew Swan released Manitoba’s International Education Strategy.
“With robust annual increases in student enrolments in Manitoba, the potential for further growth in international education is significant,” said Swan. “International students add to our pool of skilled workers if they decide to stay in Manitoba and serve as unofficial ambassadors for Manitoba if they return home.”
The strategy focuses on ways the provincial government can help build the capacity of Manitoba’s educational institutions to pursue and succeed in international education initiatives.
“International students enhance our social fabric, bring unique perspectives to our classrooms and contribute to the province’s economic and community development,” said Advanced Education and Literacy Minister Diane McGifford. “Manitoba is committed to working toward further developing this sector so we can realize significant educational and economic returns.”
The strategy covers the five-year period from Nov. 2008 to Oct. 2013. It is built upon five elements of international education:
• providing a range of educational opportunities and support services for international students;
• participating in international development projects and securing educational contracts;
• participating in offshore educational collaborations;
• providing international learning opportunities for students, teachers and educational staff; and
• integrating an international dimension into teaching and learning processes.
“Individuals with international knowledge and intercultural skills build bridges of understanding between cultures and nations,” said Education, Citizenship and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson. “We need to ensure Manitoba’s students and educators can engage in international study and work, and that critical international knowledge and intercultural skills are shared and developed in our own classrooms.”
In 2006-07 total, estimated expenditures by international students in Manitoba were close to $75 million. The province attracts a proportionate share of international students. Between 2000 and 2006, Manitoba posted the highest percentage gain (102 per cent) in international students among all provinces.
“Manitoba is recognized internationally as a competitive economic centre, an attractive destination for investment and an excellent location for immigration and international study,” said Swan. “Our international education strategy will help further build our reputation in those areas.”
