Global Exchange, Local Impact: Tunisia-Canada Scholar Program
A Partnership Between Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), and Université Ibn Khaldoun (UIK) in Tunisia.
Program Duration: 2025 - 2028
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada & Tunisia
Target Participants: 25 student from UIK
Funded by: Global Affairs Canada
Administered by: Universities Canada
About the Program
The Global Exchange, Local Impact: Tunisia-Canada Scholar Program is a transformative initiative that provides Tunisian students with an opportunity to gain international exposure, hands-on training, and industry-relevant skills at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. This collaboration, funded by Global Affairs Canada and administered by Universities Canada, is designed to empower students—particularly women and marginalized groups—with expertise in business, entrepreneurship, technology, and sustainability.
Running from 2025 to 2028, the program enables 25 students from Université Ibn Khaldoun (UIK) in Tunisia to study at KPU’s Melville School of Business and Wilson School of Design for a semester, gaining critical skills that will contribute to Tunisia’s national development priorities.
BCDI 2030 Scholarship Program: Fall 2026 Semester
- Application Deadline: December 15,2025
- Who Can Apply? Open to full-time UIK students in Business, Computer Engineering, or Business Intelligence. Study for one semester at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) in Vancouver, Canada. The scholarship covers tuition, airfare, visa and health fees, living allowance, books, clothing, transit pass, and includes a Certificate in International Employability Skills (NSCC) plus mentorship.
Number of Scholarships Available for Fall 2026- 9
Call for Application.pdf
What Students Will Gain:
- International Education - Students will study at KPU for one semester, enrolling in programs related to business, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation.
- Hands-on Skill Development - The training students will receive at KPU will equip them with tools for success in today’s global economy.
- Employability & Career Readiness - The International Employability Course, co-developed by NSCC and KPU, ensures that students return to Tunisia with industry-relevant expertise, boosting job opportunities and economic participation.
- Cultural & Linguistic Exchange - The program fosters cross-cultural learning between Canada and Tunisia, preparing students for global careers.
- Sustainable Development & Innovation Training - Addressing Tunisia’s economic priorities
Upon successful completion, students will earn academic credits from KPU, recognized by UIK, ensuring a seamless transition back into their home country’s educational framework.
Why This Program Matters
Addressing Tunisia’s Skill Gaps:
This initiative aligns with Tunisia’s Startup Act (2018) and National Digital Strategy (2021-2025), fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
Promoting Gender Equality & Inclusion:
At least 51% of participants will be women, ensuring greater female representation in leadership and STEM fields.
Enhancing Career Prospects & Employability:
Through customized international employability course, students gain market-driven business and technology skills, increasing their chances of securing high-quality jobs.
Strengthening International Relations:
This collaboration enhances academic and professional ties between Canada and Tunisia, promoting global knowledge exchange.
What Students Will Learn
Students will choose from a range of high-demand courses designed to equip them with essential 21st-century skills:
- Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Green Business Management
- Digital Marketing Strategies
- Front-End Development for Interactive Applications
- Computer Information Systems
- ICT & Digital Transformation
- Sustainable Business Practices
- Design for Social Impact
- Networking & Career Coaching
- Women’s Leadership Training
- Job Readiness & Return Plan Development
Our Partners
NCSS is a public institution in Nova Scotia, Canada, offering over 130 programs across five academic schools: Access, Education and Language; Business and Creative Industries; Health & Human Services; Technology and Environment; and Trades and Transportation. With a network of 14 campuses and three community learning centres, NSCC provides practical, hands-on learning experiences, preparing students for various industries. NSCC specializes in skills training and employability programs, ensuring students are job-ready and equipped for the global workforce.
UIK, established in 2005, is a private university located in Tunis, Tunisia. Named after the renowned historian and philosopher Ibn Khaldoun, UIK offers a range of programs leading to officially recognized degrees, including pre-bachelor's, bachelor's, and master's degrees in various fields of study. The university is committed to providing quality education, fostering academic excellence and professional development , as well as offering students global learning opportunities.
The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) funded by Global Affairs Canada leverages higher education to strengthen social and economic development. It provides participants with high-quality, inclusive education and technical and professional training. The program’s overarching goal is to address inequality, resulting in improvements in the lives of participants and their communities.
Global Affairs Canada define, shape and advance Canada’s interests and values in a complex global environment. They provide funding for many international initiatives including international development, reducing poverty, humanitarian projects, security, religious freedom and women’s rights.
Stay Connected
For enquiries contact Global Partnerships on global.partnerships@kpu.ca