Holland College suspends 8 programs, citing drop in revenue caused by foreign student caps
College expects to see an 83% decrease in its foreign student enrolment
Holland College’s programs had been popular with international students before the federal government brought in limits in an attempt to cope with a severe shortage of housing. (Laura Meader/CBC)
Prince Edward Island’s biggest community college is phasing out eight programs for the coming school year because of a drop in revenue from “a sharp decrease in the college’s international student enrolment.”
Holland College says three other programs are being downsized because enrolment numbers have dropped. Those programs were not named in a statement issued late Friday afternoon by the college, which has its main campus in Charlottetown but also operates in Summerside, Alberton and Georgetown.
“This is a very difficult day for the college and all our staff,” Holland College president and CEO Sandy MacDonald told CBC News. “There hasn’t been this number of layoffs or suspensions of programs in the history of the college. We don’t have enough students to make it financially viable.”
He said their numbers are going from a high of 800 international students to a projected 140 students by September 2026.
“To lose 660 students — it can’t help but affect programs.”‘
The cuts will affect 35 staff members, the college’s statement said, adding: “Those who are affected have been notified, and the college is working to ensure that they are supported as they transition.”
MacDonald said the positions include teaching staff, lab staff and corporate positions such as people in finance, HR and recruiting.
Detail update here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-holland-college-programs-cancelled-1.7508409
