Canada's official languages commissioner is expressing concern over Quebec's decision to cap the number of students who can enrol in the province's English-language junior colleges. Raymond Théberge said in a report released Wednesday that he's also worried about the province's decision to raise tuition for out-of-province students at the university level. "Quebec’s English-language post-secondary institutions have grave concerns — and I share these concerns — about the impact of these measures on their student enrolment and on their financial sustainability," he wrote, adding that two universities are challenging the measures in court.
The cap on junior college, or CEGEP, enrolment was part of Quebec's 2022 language reform, which also mandates additional French classes for students. Théberge writes that Quebec's English post-secondary schools play a valuable role by exposing students to a French environment, even if they're studying in English. "Quebec’s English-language universities, CEGEPs and colleges are part of the solution, not part of the problem," he wrote.
"These institutions can play a leading role in societal efforts to protect and promote the French language. Given their national and international profile, they can be a valuable resource for students who are looking for a post-secondary education experience in English while being immersed in the French language and culture." The language law states that the share of students enrolled in English CEGEPs.