Federal government changes since December 2023 have prompted a sharp decline in international student enrolment in post-secondary institutions across Canada, including Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).
International student numbers at KPU fell by 2,000 in the current fiscal year and are projected to fall by another 1,500 in Fiscal 2026, which starts April 1, 2025. The university’s international tuition and fees revenue is projected to fall by $49 million in Fiscal 2026.
KPU responded by looking to boost income and reduce expenditures. The university has cut new discretionary spending and implemented a hiring review, where every potential job posting is scrutinized so only those positions go forward that support KPU’s strategic priorities, vision and recruitment efforts, and operations are maintained at its reduced size.
Unfortunately, the decline in international enrolment is so sharp that the university now has to issue full or partial layoff notices to approximately 70 faculty members later this week. The five-month notice will include a short labour adjustment period, during which the university will work with the Kwantlen Faculty Association to explore ways to minimize the number of layoffs that go into effect.
“While we kept our promise to maintain regular faculty positions through the current academic year, the reduction in students and revenue is too steep to renew that promise in the next academic year,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Davis.
Davis says the search would continue for new sources of income and for savings, including in other employee groups through the hiring review and overtime reductions.
The layoffs are focused in areas where the decline in international students has directly reduced demand for specific courses and programs, and Davis is assuring students the university is committed to their success.
“We want to assure you the university is committed to providing the courses, services and supports you need to complete your programs,” he says.
KPU will be providing dedicated support to faculty members affected by the layoff notices and offers support through its Employee and Family Assistance Plan for other employees.