Program Encourages International Students to Stay in Nova Scotia
October 12th, 2018 – Annapolis Basin Conference Centre, Cornwallis, Nova Scotia. One hundred and ten international students from 28 countries, studying at post-secondary institutions across the province, come together in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia.
The retreat brings together participants from two programs: the Atlantic Canada Study and Stay™ program, which is designed for final year international students, and the Study and Stay™ program, whose participants were recruited from their home countries in 2016 to complete their post-secondary studies in Nova Scotia. These programs are linked to the broader Atlantic Canadian initiative announced on February 20th, 2018 to expand Study and Stay™ throughout the Atlantic region. EduNova is excited to launch the Nova Scotia regional expansion of the Atlantic Canada Study and Stay™ initiative during the program retreat. Parallel programs are being replicated and launched in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and PEI.
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Province of Nova Scotia through the Department of Labour and Advanced Education, the programs are managed by EduNova Co-operative Ltd. EduNova has dedicated resources to help program participants become employees and entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia, aligning directly with Nova Scotia’s immigration goals.
As one component of the programs, students will learn about the importance of mentorship to help them reach their career goals and will be paired with mentors throughout the program. Participating students will be provided with the education, tools, community connections, and support to launch a successful career and a fulfilling life in Nova Scotia post-graduation.
The objective of the program is to retain 80% of participating students one-year post-graduation. The first cohort, launched in the fall of 2016, retained 82% of students, while 100% of the second cohort remains in the province today—most of whom have secured jobs in their field of study. The high percentage of students who stayed in the province post-graduation speaks to the ongoing success of the program. The 2018 retreat marks the beginning of the third year for these programs. EduNova expects this year to build upon the previous years’ success.
Recognized by both national and international awards, these programs are unique in Canada, if not the World. They demonstrate Nova Scotia’s commitment to attracting and retaining international students and to building a province where newcomers are welcomed, celebrated and supported.