Canada Student Protests: Deportations on the Rise
Introduction
Canada is witnessing a surge in nationwide protests as over 70,000 international student graduates face deportation due to recent changes in federal immigration policies. These policies have sparked outrage among the affected students, particularly those from India, who believe they are being unfairly targeted.
Background
In 2023, the Canadian government implemented changes to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows international students to work in Canada after graduating.
The new policies reduced the eligibility period for the PGWP from three years to two, and only students who have completed their studies in specific fields are eligible.
Student Protests
The changes have triggered widespread protests across Canada, with students expressing their concerns about the impact on their future prospects.
In Brampton, Ontario, a city with a large Indian student population, protests have been particularly vocal. Students feel that the new policies are discriminatory and will have a disproportionate impact on international students from India.
Government Response
In response to the protests, the Canadian government has defended the changes, arguing that they are necessary to ensure that the PGWP program is fair and equitable.
The government has also announced that it will review the PGWP program and consider possible revisions in the future.
Impact on International Students
The changes have created significant uncertainty for international students in Canada.
Many students are now at risk of being deported if they cannot secure employment in a qualifying field within a two-year timeframe.
Conclusion
The student protests in Canada highlight the challenges faced by international students in an increasingly competitive job market.
While the Canadian government has defended the changes to the PGWP program, it remains to be seen how these policies will ultimately impact the lives of affected students.
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