Jonathan Likongo, a student at Université de Montréal, had planned to visit his family in Kinshasa after two years in Montreal. However, due to concerns about potential travel restrictions, he chose to remain in Canada.
His decision proved to be wise as Canada implemented temporary measures in May to restrict entry for certain foreign nationals from central African countries, citing the Ebola outbreak. In July, an additional measure was introduced, denying entry to foreign nationals who had been in the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C.) within the past 21 days. These measures are scheduled to be in effect until Aug. 29.
Likongo, a member of the Congolese Students’ Association at Université de Montréal, highlighted the challenges faced by students who had planned to travel during the summer break amidst the sudden restrictions.
Impact on Students
Several universities in Quebec reported that a significant number of students could be impacted by these measures, with students already enrolled in programs and those preparing to start in the upcoming fall term facing uncertainties.
Université de Montréal disclosed that 170 students from the D.R.C. or Sudan had been admitted for the fall term, while 182 individuals from these countries were already enrolled in programs during the previous academic sessions. Université Laval and Université du Québec à Montréal also confirmed the challenges faced by approximately 240 and 100 students, respectively.
The universities are collaborating with affected students to navigate through the implications. Options being explored include registration adjustments, deferred admissions, remote learning, and flexible program start dates.
Anticipating Future Developments
With the current measures set to expire on Aug. 29, students stranded outside Canada are eagerly awaiting updates on what lies ahead.
Health Canada disclosed to CBC that they are closely monitoring the Ebola situation and continuously reassessing the measures in collaboration with global partners. The government will make further decisions based on the latest evidence before the current measures potentially lapse.
For Likongo and many others, the uncertainty has resulted in missed family reunions and disrupted travel plans. They remain hopeful for a swift resolution and the containment of the disease to facilitate a reunion with their loved ones.