A study released by the Northern Policy Institute provides a grim outlook on school finances for the 2020-2021 year.
Research analyst Hilary Hagar says northern Ontario colleges and universities will likely see a big drop in International student numbers because of COVID-19.
She notes the financial hit on schools would be a loss of about $58-million in revenue from tuition fees. (Based on 50% decrease in International student enrolment)
Hagar notes this will also impact local economies.
“International students spend considerable amount on rent, groceries, transportation, communication, clothing and we predicted that a 50% decrease in International students would result in a loss of $50-million in local economies as a result.”
Hagar notes Thunder Bay would be the hardest hit, with a projected economic loss of $80-million. (Based on 50% decrease in International student enrolment)
She believes there are things schools can do to help cushion the blow.
“Look at how on-line courses are being delivered. A number of authors have said that the way post-secondary institutions offer on-line courses right now isn’t really attractive to either domestic students or international students.”
Hagar stresses now is the time for administrators of colleges and universities as well as community leaders to strategize and plan a way forward.
To read the full report visit https://www.northernpolicy.ca/covid-19international-student
