Bishop’s’ international students, professors’ federation voice concerns
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Bishop’s University students and faculty are facing uncertainty as Bill 74, aimed at restricting the number of international students in Quebec’s schools and universities, casts doubt over the institution’s autonomy and future diversity. The recently proposed legislation has prompted mixed reactions, with student leaders and professors’ groups warning of its potential impact on university independence, program viability, and Quebec’s appeal as a study destination.
In an interview with Drew Henkel, President of Bishop’s University’s Student Representative Council (SRC), and third-year international student Fiona Gaombalet, both expressed concerns over the restrictive nature of Bill 74. The bill, which would grant the Quebec government new powers to regulate international admissions by program and institution, could limit educational options for students from around the world, they argue. This move has raised apprehensions among both students and faculty members across the province.
Henkel highlighted the apprehension felt among students, especially as international students already face high tuition fees and the pressure to finance their studies while adjusting to life in Quebec. “It’s always kind of on people’s minds… it’s an uncertainty towards the future,” Henkel shared. The SRC has yet to take direct action but aligns with the university’s stance against the bill, with Henkel stating that the bill “isn’t a positive function for us in any way.”
Gaombalet echoed the concerns, reflecting on her own experience coming from France to study in Quebec. “In France, we cannot have proper access to the studies that we want to do. Here in Quebec, you actually have the ability to learn and be in corporate situations to acquire more knowledge,” she said. Gaombalet emphasized that many international students, like her, are driven by Quebec’s unique bilingual environment and the chance to integrate into both anglophone and francophone cultures.
