Canadore College is settling into a familiar routine in this first week of the 2024-2025 school year. Final enrolment figures will be confirmed by the second week of September, but Canadore remains confident it will see student numbers close to the 2023-2024 academic year.
"There's a wonderful energy in the halls again along with lots of smiling faces," said George Burton, President and CEO. "All-in-all we're off to a great start."
Canadore has four campuses - three in North Bay (College Drive, Aviation Technology, and Commerce Court) and one in Parry Sound - and attracts more than 5,000 students a year from more than 400 communities across Ontario, Canada, and 15 countries around the world. Students come to Canadore from as far away as Brazil, China, India, Malaysia, Peru, and Nigeria.
The College recognizes the scarcity of affordable housing across Ontario and has taken measures to ease that burden for its students. Over the past year, Canadore has added 176 beds to its housing inventory, reducing demand in the community. Under new federal regulations, international students must attest to having secured housing in order to obtain a study visa.
"We take the responsibility of housing very seriously," said Burton. "We're confident no students will be without housing."
Business and industry leaders continue to urge Canadore to produce more graduates to fill the growing skills shortage across all sectors. The College is actively working with partners and the government to ensure it continues to meet the skilled labour needs of Ontario.
"Our programs and services are designed to meet current and future market demands, and we can quickly adapt to the changing workforce requirements," Burton said. "Our alumni play a vital role in supporting the growth of the economy."
Canadore College significantly contributes to the regional economy, with total annual spending reaching $402.5 million.