Canadian Educational Institutions Support Afghan Newcomers
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada’s Commitment to Afghan Refugees
The Canadian government is dedicated to swiftly resettling 40,000 Afghan nationals. To date, 8,580 Afghan refugees have been welcomed into the country, with more arriving each week.
Canadians play a vital role in this effort, and educational institutions are stepping up to provide career training opportunities. Recently, CDI College introduced a tuition bursary program for refugees, offering a 25% tuition rebate upon program completion, along with language training and job placement services.
Educational Initiatives for Afghan Students
Scholarship Programs
Several universities and colleges have launched scholarship programs tailored for Afghan newcomers:
- Western University in Ontario provides scholarships covering tuition and living expenses up to $100,000 over four years.
- Fanshawe College offers free tuition for five Afghan students.
- Mount Allison University in New Brunswick will welcome an Afghan student with support from various sources.
Technology Support
The Afghan Women’s Organization, in collaboration with a tech company, provides 55 devices to Afghan families for online education and work.
By accessing education, Afghan newcomers can achieve financial independence and contribute to Canada’s workforce, addressing labour shortages and fostering economic growth.
To participate in the resettlement efforts, Canadians can learn more about volunteering, donating, or sponsoring.
Minister’s Statement
“I’m heartened to see Canadians across the country continue to support some of the world’s most vulnerable, and I’m proud that our country’s colleges and universities are helping break down financial barriers faced by many Afghan newcomers. Be it language training, skills upgrades, or post-secondary studies, these opportunities will open doors for our new arrivals while helping Canada address our labour shortage and grow the economy.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts
- Refugee arrivals include those from the special immigration program for Afghans who aided the Canadian government, as well as privately sponsored refugees.
- In February 2022, Canada welcomed 176 privately sponsored and 1,095 government-assisted refugees.
- The Afghan Women’s Organization focuses on settlement services for all newcomers, especially women and those affected by war.
Additional Resources
- Canada’s response to the situation in Afghanistan
- Groups of Five sponsorship: About the process
- Sponsorship Agreement Holders: About the program
- News Release: Canadians continue to welcome Afghan refugees in their communities
Contact Information
Media Contacts
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Aidan.Strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs on Afghan Refugee Support
What support is available for Afghan refugees in Canada?
Canadian educational institutions offer scholarships, bursaries, language training, and job placement services for Afghan newcomers.
How can Canadians assist Afghan refugees?
Canadians can volunteer, donate, or sponsor refugees to support their resettlement efforts.
What role do Afghan refugees play in Canada’s economy?
Afghan refugees help alleviate labour shortages and contribute to economic growth by filling job vacancies.
