By continuing to use our site, you consent to the processing of cookies, user data (location information, type and version of the OS, the type and version of the browser, the type of device and the resolution of its screen, the source of where the user came from, from which site or for what advertisement, language OS and Browser, which pages are opened and to which buttons the user presses, ip-address) for the purpose of site functioning, retargeting and statistical surveys and reviews. 

Language Education: Enabling $6.7 Billion in Exports, 75,000 Jobs, And Much More

A new report shows that teaching our Official Languages to international students helps Canada:

  • Generate $6.7 billion in export revenues
  • Create 75,000 jobs
  • Prepare more than 35,000 students for university and college programs annually
  • Meet our immigration objectives
  • Fill our workforce gaps
  • Bring over 150,000 tourists and their families into our communities every year

In her recent report, Estimating the Comprehensive Economic Impact of International Students in Language Education Programs in Canada, respected Canadian economist Dr. Roslyn Kunin demonstrates that Canada’s language education sector enables 30% of the $22 billion in annual exports contributed to Canada by international education. Dr. Kunin estimates that every year, at least 35,657 students prepared by Canada’s language programs go on to post-secondary education programs in Canada. By using a cohort model, Dr. Kunin clearly articulates how the path undertaken by language students translates to $6.7 billion in export revenues and 75,000 jobs annually.

The report ends with valuable questions pointing the way to new and needed research on the links between language education, post-secondary education, and Canada’s immigration objectives. Languages Canada is committed to understanding and demonstrating the value of language education to Canada. While this report delves into economic and employment impact and opens the door to examining impact on immigration, the association is also eager to understand other key questions in the social realm such as the impact of sharing our values with 150,000 young people from around the world every year and our role in creating diversity and inclusivity in Canada.