By Daryl Major

VIU heads overseas to boost international recruitment

Mar 16, 2017 | 12:57 PM

NANAIMO — Vancouver Island University leadership is abroad in an effort to strengthen their relationship with international schools.

VIU president Dr. Ralph Nilson’s tour of Asia begins Friday, March 17 at partner institution Chitkara University in northwest India. He and other VIU staff will then travel around India and Vietnam to various schools. They’ll also attend the opening of the university’s East Asia office in Ho Chi Minh City.

Nilson said international enrollment is a key part of VIU demographics, currently sitting at 18 per cent.

“They’re certainly benefiting from their experience and the strong welcome that they receive in this community is significant and the contributions that they make are significant,” he said.

International students make “significant contributions” to VIU and Vancouver Island, Nilson said. “It’s a whole different level of relationship that really adds to the dialogue (we have). It really enhances the whole economic and social prosperity of the community.”

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According to the VIU website, international students pay nearly $7,000 per semester for an undergraduate or equivalent program.

Nilson said the number of international students is expected to rise in the near future, especially given political turmoil in the United States.

“Definitely we’ve seen some increased inquiries and increased opportunities for students who are looking,” he said. “We’re constantly in dialogue with different people.”

He said Canada’s ability to recognize and accept “incredible talent” from across the world is what prompts so many students to study in Canada.

“I think Canada should be very proud of that,” he said.

daryl.major@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @5minmajor