RRU in the media: International students create economic resilience
Amid an escalating trade war with its largest economic partner, Canada has launched a range of responses, from retaliatory tariffs, to encouraging Canadians to buy local. But the government has overlooked one measure that could strengthen our economy and build long-term resilience, says Isaac Garcia-Sitton, an associate faculty member in RRU’s School of Education and Technology.
International students represent a significant positive financial impact, which has been disregarded in recent policy moves to limit international study permits. In addition to their economic contributions, international students bring a wealth of knowledge, innovation and cutting-edge research to our country.
In his recent article in The Conversation, Garcia-Sitton argues that instead of limiting study permits, the country should work to address the systemic issues that stand in the way of international students succeeding in Canada following their studies.
Here’s an excerpt from his article:
“International students are more than workers — they’re entrepreneurs, innovators and future job creators.
“For instance, as of 2022, nearly 180 of the U.S.’s billion-dollar companies were founded by former international students. Each of these companies created an average of 800 jobs and made up nearly a quarter of all dollar companies.
“Canada risks losing similarly bright minds to more welcoming countries if clear pathways for them to stay, contribute and build businesses aren’t established. This would cost the country both talent and billions in economic potential.”