December 18, 2023 – Sheridan College and the City of Brampton have come together to launch the Brampton Charter for Improving the International Student Experience. The Charter, a result of collaborative efforts, aims to bring about meaningful changes for international students studying in Canada.
Mayor Patrick Brown and Sheridan’s President, Dr. Janet Morrison, recently signed the Guiding Principles of the Charter at Sheridan’s Davis Campus in Brampton, solidifying their commitment to improving outcomes for international students. The Charter is the outcome of a community roundtable, an international student summit, and collaborative efforts to create a shared approach to actions, reporting, and accountability.
The Charter emphasizes appreciating the complexity of international student experiences, acknowledging their diverse contributions, and recognizing the unique challenges they face. It seeks to view the international student experience holistically, covering physical, mental, social, cultural, financial, and academic well-being.
Over 35 Brampton-based organizations, including educational institutions, social service organizations, and faith and business groups, have endorsed the Guiding Principles of the Charter, emphasizing the community-wide commitment to this initiative.
The Charter encourages collaboration among stakeholders to enhance the international student experience, fostering a strong and resourceful community network. Residents of Brampton are invited to review the Charter and provide feedback, ensuring a collective effort to improve outcomes for international students.
Dr. Morrison expressed pride in the collaborative work undertaken, stating, “This is truly community work, done in partnership with over 35 organizations, to ensure international students have the opportunity to thrive in the classroom and beyond.”
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown commended Sheridan for its leadership, stating, “We are excited to bring meaningful change for how international students experience life and study in Brampton.”
The Brampton Charter outlines specific goals, including upholding ethical recruitment standards, creating academic and wrap-around supports, promoting safe and affordable housing, providing opportunities for legal and reliable work, and championing well-defined pathways to citizenship for international students.
The Charter also establishes accountability measures, including regular data collection, self-reporting systems, and recognition measures to celebrate best-practice models.
The initiative began with a fall 2021 Roundtable, bringing together community leaders to develop an integrated strategy to help international students thrive. The subsequent International Student Summit in July 2022 laid the foundation for the Brampton Charter, highlighting the role of all stakeholders in providing seamless support for international students.
The Charter, with its shared principles, recommended actions, and mechanisms for accountability, aims to inspire other jurisdictions to adopt similar community charters, creating a national network committed to providing a successful international student experience.
For more information and to review the full Charter, visit the websites of Sheridan College and the City of Brampton. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of international students in our community!
