Okanagan College Faces Enrolment Decline but Remains Optimistic About Growth

What's Happening?

Okanagan College is experiencing a significant 30 percent decline in international student enrolment this year, as reported by President Neil Fassina. This drop translates to nearly 700 fewer international students compared to the previous year, posing a financial challenge for the institution, which relies heavily on international tuition as a major revenue source. Despite this setback, Fassina expressed confidence in the college's long-term growth and profitability during a presentation to the Kelowna council. He acknowledged the need to contract the organization to align with the current student population, with expectations to stabilize by fall 2027. Currently, 88 percent of the college's enrolment is domestic, showing a slight increase this year. Fassina emphasized the importance of a college education in the region, citing the province's Labour Market Outlook, which projects 121,900 job openings in the Thompson-Okanagan region over the next decade, most requiring post-secondary credentials.

Why It's Important?

The decline in international student enrolment at Okanagan College highlights a broader issue facing many educational institutions that depend on international tuition for financial stability. This trend could have significant implications for the college's financial health and its ability to maintain and expand its programs and infrastructure. The college's strategy to focus on domestic enrolment and align with regional labor market needs is crucial for its sustainability. The projected job openings in the region underscore the importance of post-secondary education in meeting future workforce demands. The college's initiatives, such as partnerships with local governments and First Nations, aim to enhance its profile and attract more students, which could be vital for its long-term success.

What's Next?

Okanagan College is actively working on several initiatives to bolster its reputation and attract more students. These include partnerships with Kelowna, West Kelowna, and Westbank First Nation to apply for UNESCO’s Creative Cities Alliance, aiming for recognition as Canada’s City of Gastronomy. Additionally, the college is investing in infrastructure projects, such as the Don Folk and Family Recreation and Wellness Centre and the Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism, expected to be completed by summer 2026 and 2027, respectively. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to position the college as a first-choice educational institution and to adapt to changing enrolment patterns.