The longstanding relationship between Canada and Barbados continues to thrive through educational partnerships, as the Stanford Centre for CUP 2024 Fair welcomed Canadian High Commissioner to Barbados, Brenda Wills, to its latest event.
With 31 Canadian universities and colleges represented, students and prospective scholars had the chance to explore the opportunities available for higher education in Canada.
CUP Fest, The Student Centre’s official education fair brand under its College and University Prep (CUP) Services, provides a platform for Caribbean students, parents, and educators to connect with educational institutions from across the globe. This year’s CUP Fest — held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre — featured a strong Canadian presence, highlighting the appeal of Canada as a preferred destination for higher education among Barbadian students.
In her first month as High Commissioner, Wills expressed delight in witnessing the collaboration between the Canadian High Commission and The Student Centre. “We get a great turnout like this every year, and it’s wonderful to see the strong interest in Canadian institutions,” she said. This year’s fair continues a long-standing tradition that focuses on Canada’s commitment to fostering educational exchanges with Barbados.
When asked why Canada remains such an attractive option for Barbadian students, the High Commissioner highlighted the country’s inclusive, multicultural society. “Canada is an attractive destination because we have a diverse and inclusive country with people from all over the world,” she explained. Although not specifically designed to attract international students, these qualities — combined with Canada’s relatively low cost of living and internationally recognised academic credentials — make it a natural choice.
She also revealed that Canadian educational institutions, including world-renowned universities such as the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, and York University, offer a wide range of academic and research programmes. From vocational training to PhD programmes, Canada provides educational options for students at every level.
In addition to top-tier education, the diplomat noted that Canada offers students the chance to work while studying, with certain provisions allowing part-time employment. “There are some provisions for students to do part-time work,” she shared, adding that the number of work hours depends on the programme and level of study. For those looking to remain in Canada post-graduation, various work permit options may be available depending on the student’s academic qualifications.
Canada’s relationship with Barbados extends beyond the borders of education. As Wills explained, the Canadian High Commission has fostered close ties with not just Barbados but also other nations in the Eastern Caribbean. “This fair is one of the many initiatives we support,” she noted, “and we anticipate that it will continue every year.”
Wills hopes that students and professionals alike, whether in Barbados or across the Eastern Caribbean, will continue to explore the educational opportunities Canada has to offer. (RG)
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