New Delhi: Messing with India is becoming costly for Canada. Canada is taking many such decisions one after the other wich seem to be backfiring for itself.The latest case is regarding Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. Canada has ended this program. This program was ended on November 8 this year. The Central Government has also confirmed this in the Parliament. Though,by ending this program,Canada has shot itself in the foot. Canada started the SDS program in the year 2018. Under this, students from 14 countries including India studying in Canada used to get visa quickly. Students used to get visa within 20 days if they fulfilled all the conditions. Whereas it used to take several months to get a visa after applying through the normal process. After the end of the SDS program, students will now get visa under the normal process.
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Fund proof was taken from the student
Under the SDS program, Canada did not issue visas quickly. For this a huge amount was charged from the students.In this process, advance payment of one year’s tuition fees had to be made. Also, the student had to give a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GCI) of $ 20635 (about Rs 17.45 lakh) as proof of funds.
How many students get visa in a year?
According to data from Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in the year 2019, a total of 173025 Indian students applied for visa under this process. Out of these, 110049 got visa under SDS.
this number decreased slightly in the year 2020. Maybe because of corona. That year 74655 Indian students applied and 36057 visas were approved. This number increased in the year 2021. That year,out of 230860 Indian visas,137535 were approved. IRCC does not have data after this.
How much will Canada suffer?
Discontinuing this program is a big loss for Canada. canada alone will suffer a loss of several thousand crore rupees annually from India.
If we consider the IRCC figures for the year 2021, then that year 137535 Indian students got visas under the SDS program. At the rate of rs 17.45 lakh per student, this amount for 137535 students is Rs 17550 crore. That means Canada had received such a huge amount in the year 2021 itself. At this time the number of students increased further. In such a situation, Canada has suffered huge losses.
What alternatives do Indian students have for studying abroad after teh discontinuation of canada’s SDS program?
Interview wiht Dr. Aditi Sharma, Education Policy Expert
Time.News Editor: Welcome,Dr. Sharma! Thank you for joining us today. Canada recently ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program,which has had notable ramifications for Indian students.Can you explain what the SDS program was and its importance?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Thank you for having me. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, introduced by Canada in 2018, was designed to streamline the visa process for students from specific countries, including India. Under SDS, eligible students could receive their visas in as little as 20 days, significantly faster than the standard processing time. This rapid processing made Canada an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education.
Time.News Editor: It’s quite surprising that Canada has decided to discontinue such a popular program. What do you think are the reasons behind this decision?
Dr. Aditi sharma: the reasons for discontinuing the SDS program seem multifaceted. Some speculate that it could be related to immigration control measures or a response to changing domestic policies. However, this decision appears to be a miscalculation, notably given the high demand from indian students.
Time.News Editor: What are the financial implications for Canada, particularly regarding the losses they may incur from Indian students?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Ending the SDS program is likely to cost Canada dearly. As noted, in 2021 alone, 137,535 Indian students received visas through this program. With tuition fees averaging around 17.45 lakh rupees (approximately CAD $26,000), the potential loss could reach several thousand crores annually.This revenue stream from international students is crucial for Canada’s economy and educational institutions.
Time.News Editor: given this situation, how might prospective Indian students respond to the discontinuation of the SDS program?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Many students may be discouraged by the longer visa processing times and the return to the regular application process, which can take several months. This could lead to a decline in the number of Indian students applying to Canadian institutions, as they might explore choice countries with more accessible visa pathways, such as the United States, Australia, or the United Kingdom.
Time.News Editor: In your opinion, how could Canada mitigate the impact of this decision on its educational sector?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Canada should reconsider its decision, particularly in light of the strong international demand for its educational offerings. They could explore reintroducing a modified version of the SDS program that addresses current concerns while still facilitating faster visas for international students.Additionally, enhancing scholarship opportunities and outreach programs can further attract students from India and other countries.
Time.News Editor: Lastly, what advice would you offer to Indian students currently considering studying abroad?
Dr.Aditi sharma: I would advise students to stay informed about the visa application processes of various countries. It’s essential to conduct thorough research on educational opportunities and look into institutions that are responsive to international students’ needs. Diversifying options and considering countries with robust support systems for students can also be beneficial in the long run.
Time.News Editor: Thank you, Dr.Sharma, for your valuable insights on this pressing issue! Your expertise helps clarify the implications of Canada’s decision on Indian students and offers them a path forward.
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Thank you for having me! It’s critically important to stay proactive during these changes,and I hope students find a path that best suits their aspirations.