College of New Caledonia’s 2024 Challenges and Optimism Ahead
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Loading... - Khepri Yousef
- 31 Dec 2024
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The College of New Caledonia (CNC) experienced a transformative year in 2024, marked by the successful introduction of several new programs. However, the federal government’s recent announcement to cap the number of international students has raised significant concerns about the college's future.
CNC President Cindy Heitman addressed these challenges, stating, “There will be layoffs coming across all employee groups, so that means our management group, our faculty group, and our CUPE support and organizational support groups.” Heitman emphasized the college's commitment to maintaining as many positions as possible while ensuring the necessary resources are available to provide high-quality programming for students.
Impact of International Student Cap
With approximately 30% of CNC’s student body comprised of international students, the cap on new international enrollments poses a serious threat to the college's revenue. While current international students will be able to complete their programs, the anticipated decline in future international enrollment will likely lead to layoffs and program cuts. Heitman noted, “We have to look at how we do our business and maybe make some changes, maybe look at domestic recruitment, look at creating programs and opportunities to draw more students from our regions, from our areas, from our country, to attend CNC.”
Heitman described this situation as a pivotal moment for the college, stating, “It’s a bit of a pivot. We’ve had to look at some of our courses, we’ve had to change some of our strategies. But it’s how you choose to look at it. We can see it as the end of something, or we can see it as the beginning of something. And I think for our college community, we’re really looking at this as an opportunity for transformation and change as we begin a new journey.”
Positive Developments and Future Opportunities
Despite the challenges, 2024 also brought numerous positive developments for CNC. Heitman highlighted the college's efforts to enhance the student experience and increase domestic enrollment. One notable success was the launch of the TekX program, which allows high school students to earn both high school and post-secondary credits. “We’ve created a framework and a model that we know works. How do we do more of that? How do we do that for our communities? So we’re hoping to see more of that,” Heitman said.
Additionally, CNC has focused on engaging with Indigenous communities, with the launch of the lhk’enazdulkat program serving as a significant highlight. Heitman explained, “That plan has created a roadmap for us to not only Indigenize our curriculum but to decolonize our College to ensure that we’re meeting the needs of Indigenous students.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
While the loss of international students presents a formidable challenge, Heitman remains optimistic about CNC's future. She hopes that by building on the successes of 2024 and continuing to innovate, the college can improve its programming and student experience. “We’re looking at this as an opportunity for transformation, and I believe that the story of 2025 will be one of resilience and growth,” Heitman concluded.
As CNC navigates these changes, the focus will be on adapting to new realities while striving to provide quality education and support for all students, ensuring that the college remains a vital educational institution in the community.
