Canada's decision to impose a two-year cap on international student permits

 Canada's decision to impose a two-year cap on international student permits has cast a shadow over the aspirations of potential candidates. The focal point of concern revolves around the justifications provided by the Immigration Minister. A closer examination reveals the harsh realities awaiting young Indians aspiring for study visas. The minister pointed out that certain private institutions have exploited international students by operating under-resourced campuses and charging exorbitant tuition fees. Such circumstances do not align with the envisioned dreams of students and their parents, potentially prompting a shift to alternative countries for education. The underlying sentiment persists—the preference for any place other than India, regardless of the associated costs. Ultimately, the limited opportunities available domestically take precedence.

In the third quarter of 2023, Canada experienced its fastest population growth in six decades, with over eight lakh foreign students in the country in 2022, a substantial increase from 2.14 lakh a decade earlier. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces electoral challenges, as opinion polls indicate potential losses if an election were held presently. The government is pressured to address the housing crisis, linked to the surge in immigration. The imposed cap is anticipated to result in a 35 percent decrease in study permits compared to the previous year, aiming to alleviate the strain on housing and other services.

For many, the discouraging job prospects and the fear of missing out on a better life abroad make the decision to leave for any destination an obvious one, regardless of the uncertainties ahead. Indian households are projected to spend $70 billion annually on their children's foreign education by 2025, with the surge primarily driven by non-metro and small-town residents. This trend reflects a disheartening commentary on the subpar higher education landscape in India, marked by a lack of both qualitative and quantitative choices. The imperative for students is to prioritize quality education above all else