The Big Story
Are the limits on student visas hindering the future of local journalism?
Apr 9, 2025
In this discussion, Gina Lorentz, Professor and Coordinator of Fanshawe College’s Multimedia Journalism program, dives into the impact of Canada's cap on international student visas. She highlights how this policy is straining journalism programs and limiting enrollment, which poses a threat to local journalism and democracy. Lorentz also examines the challenges faced by international students, including housing and financial burdens, and emphasizes the shift in news consumption towards social media, questioning the future credibility of journalism.
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Quick takeaways
- The introduction of a cap on international student visas has significantly reduced enrollment, straining educational institutions and endangering journalism programs.
- Despite challenges from the visa cap and budget cuts, there is still a strong demand for foundational journalism education amidst evolving media landscapes.
Deep dives
Impact of Visa Caps on International Students
A significant announcement from the Canadian government led to a cap on international student visas, resulting in a notable decline in the number of study permits issued. In 2024, around 360,000 student visas were granted, reflecting a 35% decrease from the previous year. While the government aims to alleviate pressures on housing and healthcare systems through this measure, educational institutions have faced financial repercussions. Many colleges, particularly in Ontario, are now grappling with budget deficits as they see a decline in revenue from international student fees, leading to program cuts and layoffs to adjust to the new financial realities.
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