International students studying in B.C. are enriching the province’s classrooms, homes and communities while they benefit from a world class education system. 

Today, to help celebrate International Education Week, Education Minister Mike Bernier visited Byrne Creek Community school to meet with secondary students from many different countries, as well as Canadian students and homestay partners.

Bernier was joined by Burnaby board of education chair Ron Burton, teachers and school staff to speak with international and Canadian students and hear about their experiences.  

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Today, Gianmarco Luu, an Italian student studying at Byrne Creek shared how involvement in school and community events has changed his perspective of the world – he is now considering going to university in B.C. and pursuing a career in international relations.

International students also provide Canadian students with opportunities to learn other languages, cultures and new ways of thinking. Burnaby resident student Kiana Lim appreciates the diversity of her high school and hopes to contribute positively to our rapidly growing and diverse society by studying biomedical sciences.

B.C.’s international education sector provides communities throughout the province with valuable social and cultural opportunities. Eva Olejniczak, a homestay parent and teacher, explained how hosting international students enhances her own family life. They learn traditions from all around the world from the students they host, and have made connections that will last a lifetime.

Thanks to B.C.’s high-quality education opportunities, exciting natural surroundings and welcoming communities, the province’s international education sector will continue to thrive and grow, drawing students from all over the world.

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Quotes:

Mike Bernier, Minister of Education –

“International education not only benefits international students, but local B.C. students as well through the sharing of ideas, cultural experience and friendship. The end result is a more diverse and interesting learning environment for all students.”

Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Advanced Education –

“International education experiences are life-changing for students in all levels of education, whether in K-12 or post-secondary. Students gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures, and build global connections that will last them a lifetime.”

Ron Burton, chair, Burnaby board of education –

“Our district is proud of the caring and inclusive learning communities that our Burnaby public schools provide. Since 2002 we have welcomed international students into our classrooms, and today students from 37 countries study here. Learning first-hand about global perspectives on culture, politics and economics enriches class discussions and provides students with deeper connections to the world around them. Additionally, students and staff alike form strong friendships that provide them with a passport to borders beyond Canada.”

Gianmarco Luu, Byrne Creek Community school international student (Italy) –

“I love the multiculturalism and accepting environment in Canada.  I would love to stay here for University and plan to pursue International Relations. ”

Kiana Lim, Byrne Creek Community school student –

“My international friends who are at Byrne Creek have taught me to appreciate the opportunities of a diverse community and recognize how these global connections will help me be successful in the future.”

Quick Facts:

• Government launched British Columbia’s International Education Strategy in 2012 to promote the global two-way flow of students, educators and ideas between countries.
• International education is a rapidly growing sector and continues to have a significant impact on the economy and job creation.
  • Each year, international students attending K-12 programs, post-secondary institutions or registered private career training institutions spend well over $2 billion in B.C. on tuition, accommodation and other living expenses, arts and culture and recreation.
  • This supports around 27,500 jobs and creates a positive economic effect on communities throughout the province.
  • International students also continue to contribute to the economy in B.C. long after they graduate, whether they decide to stay and work in their adoptive community, or pursue opportunities elsewhere in the province, utilizing their skills in the labour market.
• International education is one of the key sectors in ‘Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan’. The Jobs Plan recognizes the significant benefits that flow to the province from the global exchange of students, educators and ideas.

Learn More:

• Burnaby school district’s international education program: http://www.studyinburnaby.ca/
• International education in B.C. factsheet: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/international-students-in-bc
• BC Jobs Plan and international education: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/bcjobsplan/economy/international-education/
• B.C. Council for International Education: http://bccie.bc.ca/
• LearnLiveBC: http://www.learnlivebc.ca/