City aims to develop strategies to address unique challenges faced by international students
Surrey, BC – On Nov. 27, the City of Surrey hosted a forum aimed at exploring solutions to the unique challenges facing international students in the community. This first-ever event, held at
Surrey Arts Centre, featured a panel of international students who shared their stories of resilience, highlighting the obstacles they face while living in Surrey. The forum provided a vital platform for students, community leaders, and service providers to collaborate and discuss the issues of housing instability, job insecurity, and social isolation that many students experience.
“This forum marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting international students,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Although the issues at hand fall under provincial and federal jurisdiction, Council was compelled to take action upon learning about the difficulties these students are facing. To address these challenges, we have collaborated with educational institutions, community groups, and students themselves. This event highlights our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in Surrey, to help ensure that all international students feel safe and supported within our community.”
The Nov. 27 forum enabled stakeholders to explore key strategies and formulate recommendations aimed at enhancing services and support systems for international students.
With insights gained from the forum, the City will develop a comprehensive strategy to help ensure international students have the resources and supports they need.
This year, the City’s Housing and Social Development division has engaged with various stakeholders, including educational institutions, community organizations, and, crucially, the
students themselves. This engagement has revealed invaluable insights into the realities faced by these individuals. Staff have collaborated with community partners to support multiple job
fairs in 2024. More programs are launching soon such as English conversation circles and informational workshops on topics such as tenant rights.
The City of Surrey is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment for all residents and remains committed to engaging citizens and service providers to further our vision of a safe, diverse, and resilient community.