My name is Nisarg and I am an international student studying at Centennial College. Back in April, 2022 I arrived in Canada in search of quality education and a better and equal opportunity. I belong to a developing nation where social inequality, economic inequality, gender inequality, everything is there. So, when I decided to go abroad, the first thing that came in mind was, I want to go to the country where everyone has equal right for everything, and for that the only country I found best was Canada. However, I forgot that this equality is meant only for citizens of Canada not for international students like me. I thought I would get same right, same respect everything like one citizen here gets. But, I am wrong. The way this countrty, especially Ontario, has kept fees difference between domestic and international students, I feel, it’s oppressive and exploiting. For coming to Canada, back in India, I have borrowed the loan of 16 Lakhs INR (Approx. 26,500 CAD) with interest rate of 14% per year which is very expensive. But, in hope of better life and good career I have dared to do this. I thought government of Canada is very insightful and would do something that international students’ burdon would get reduced. However, I am still struggling. Struggling for my second year’s fees, struggling for Nutritious food, struggling for a respect and equality. I am only earning minimum wage with only 20 hours of work limit, and with this minimum wage, managing my house rent and groceries are almost to impossible. If things go same, I don’t know how would I manage my second year’s fees? Due to this we, international students, are having very stressful life. Many students, here, are getting pray of malnutrition, depression, and loneliness. I am writing here not only for me, but for each and every international student who is sailing on the same boat. I demand for change. Change that bring happiness, equality and respect in every international student’s life. Hope! things will change soon and Government will think about us. |