There are growing concerns about both staffing levels and programming at Fanshawe College as the federal government moves to cap international student visas. “If I get an opportunity to work in Canada I’ll definitely move forward,” said international student Anmol Bakshi, who’s studying Hospitality at Fanshawe’s downtown London campus. “However, what the current situation is all about, I’m not seeing myself giving myself in Canada much longer, so I will definitely go back.
” Bakshi’s friend, student Jeevan Hegde, also from India, expressed apprehension for his own fate, both academically and professionally. “Absolutely I’m concerned about my future because my parents literally spent a fortune to get me over in this country. So right now, starting raising your eyebrows and questioning about what would be a coming future,” he said.
Their concerns come as the list of colleges facing financial challenges continues to grow, with the federal government looking to reduce the number of new student visas by more than one third this year. Earlier this week, Sheridan College in the GTA announced it’s suspending 40 programs and reducing staff, citing a drop in enrollment. At Fanshawe College, OPSEU 110 President Mark Feltham said he’s been advised to expect a 47 per cent reduction in international student enrollment for the winter term.
OPSEU 110 President Mark Feltham on Nov. 28, 2024. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London) “It is already affecting contract staffi.