Understanding the Context

In the most recently published Mandate and Roles Document for the Board of Governors of Bow Valley College, it clearly states that the college is committed to a learner focus of newcomers to Canada, and to programs in English Language Learning. This is specifically mentioned as an area of specialization. 

Providing ESL instruction has been a cornerstone of Bow Valley College’s role and purpose, but it's so much more than that. This isn't just about teaching English—it's about fostering integration, building confidence, and empowering individuals to contribute to their communities. The college's ESL programs have been a lifeline for many, shaping lives and futures in immeasurable ways.  

The Language Instruction for Newcomers ot Canada (LINC) program is a federally funded initiative designed to provide newcomers to Canada with essential English language training.  LINC helps learners develop practical communication skills, preparing them for success in the workplace and their communities.

LINC funding is distributed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canda (IRCC) to service providers across the country to cover language classes for permanent residents and protected persons. Organizations who receive financial support offer LINC programs to meet specific outcomes, such as helping learners achieve Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). CLBs are levels of language competency ranging from beginner to advanced. 

Under the Trudeau administration, cuts were made to IRCC funding, anticipating lower immigration levels in the future. This decision has proven to be a critical error, as the demand for LINC programs remains high, with many students still relying on this essential support to improve their language skills and integrate into Canadian society. 

With funding now limited to CLB levels 1–4, students are unable to progress to higher levels of language proficiency. To put this into perspective, CLB 5 is typically required to read a newspaper or enroll in a trade program, while CLB 7 is necessary for college entry. This reduction has left a significant gap, jeopardizing the futures of countless newcomers. 

However, with a new Prime Minister and Immigration Minister, there is hope that these funding decisions can be revisited and reversed. It is crucial for the School of Global Access at Bow Valley College to remain prepared and operational, ensuring it can accept funding and continue its vital work when the opportunity arises.

Closing the School of Global Access at Bow Valley College would represent a significant setback in supporting newcomers to Canada. This institution has been instrumental in supporting newcomers, equipping them with language skills, fostering community connections, and empowering them to contribute successfully to the economy and their communities. Its closure would leave a gap in essential services during a time when they are most needed.

Keeping the school open, however, would be a testament to Bow Valley College's commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and leadership in education. It would position the college as a champion of newcomer support, enhancing its reputation and solidifying its role as a key contributor to the community and to Canada’s broader goals of successful immigration and integration. By remaining open, BVC can continue to drive meaningful impact and bring long-term benefits to learners, the college, and the wider community.