Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
CANADA is exploring potential partnerships with local institutions of higher learning to offer education programmes in Zimbabwe, following growing demand from locals, who wish to study in the North American country.
The move comes after a high volume of inquiries during Canada’s participation in the recently concluded Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), where many Zimbabweans sought information on how they can study in Canada.
Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Adler Aristilde, urged locals to be cautious of scammers, who promise to help them move to Canada for study, saying all inquiries should be made directly through the embassy.
“We have been providing information on how to migrate to Canada, to study or work. Everyone can navigate the immigration system without the need for an agent who demands payment,” he said.
Ambassador Aristilde noted that Canadian universities and post-secondary education, in general, are popular with Zimbabweans, but proving the ability to pay for four years of education is a challenge for many.
The ambassador also mentioned that Canada is in discussions with Canadian universities to find local partners in Zimbabwe. The goal is to offer programmes that would allow Zimbabwean students to study in Zimbabwe while receiving a qualification with both local and Canadian recognition.
“Very few people will have the ability to travel to Canada, but we are working on a programme where students can earn an education with a Canadian component that is recognised both in Zimbabwe and Canada. These conversations are ongoing, and we hope to have something in place by next year’s ZITF,” he said.
Ambassador Aristilde said Canada is keen to strengthen trade relations with Zimbabwe.
Despite the impact of the recent Canadian elections, which affected some companies’ participation at ZITF, the ambassador is optimistic that more companies will exhibit at next year’s event.
“This is my second visit to ZITF, but the first time, we did not have an exhibition stand. However, I decided that after the business conference we had in Harare last year with 25 companies from Canada, who visited Zimbabwe, we should explore business opportunities and set up a stand. We wanted to build on that momentum by having a stand this year with some of those companies coming to exhibit,” he said.
Ambassador Aristilde, however, noted that with the elections in Canada and the prevailing investment climate, many companies are in a wait-and-see mode.
“Still, we wanted to be here to reinforce and strengthen diplomatic and business relations between Canada and Zimbabwe,” he said.
At ZITF, Canada showcased several trade and development programmes, with immigration for study being the most frequent inquiry.
The ambassador also noted that Canadian companies are actively involved in mining in Zimbabwe and are providing services and equipment. Furthermore, there are opportunities for investment in sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture and ICT. —@themkhust
