Algonquin College Mexican students meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Pena Nieto

Posted on Thursday, June 30th, 2016

Over the summer, Algonquin College hosted 68 students from Mexico, and they added a vibrant and exciting energy to our campus. While most Canadian students were away, working on their co-ops and summer jobs, these students were studying hard to improve their English and become better teachers of English back home. They brought with them a positive attitude that lit up the classes of the Language Institute.

Proyecta 10,000 is a Mexican federal government scholarship program which sends students, faculty and professionals to Canada for short term study. AC hosted 18 students from 10 different schools this year as part of the Proyecta 10,000 program and provided a unique opportunity for students to meet two world leaders. Appearing on CBC, Radio-Canada and Live on YouTube, Algonquin received significant publicity and the students had the opportunity to participate in the International Education forum with Mexican President Peña Nieto and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the Three Amigos Summit in Ottawa.

We also hosted 38 Mexican TESL teachers from two organizations representing 169 intuitions across Mexico. The Vice-Minister of Education in Mexico, Dr. Salvador Jara Guerrero met with the Mexican Teachers of English as a Second Language students at Algonquin College, and signed a Letter of Intent between Algonquin College and the sub-secretariat and Secretariat of Public Education in Mexico.

Educafin, a governmental body in the state of Guanajuato, sponsored 10 student leaders to come to Algonquin to study ESL as well as Leadership and they had the opportunity to work with our Applied Research team for a 2-week project.

So what did the students have to say about our summer programs?

“I enjoyed every day because I increase my knowledge, I learned about new people, traditions, history, I will remember this experience for all my life” – Proyecta 10,000 Student

“I had never been to Canada before. I think AC met and exceeded my expectations, as far as location, facilities, faculty, staff, and hospitality are concerned.” – Mexican TESL teacher

“The time that I spend in Algonquin was amazing. I learned a lot and met great people. My experience in Ottawa changed my life and it made realize that I want to improve myself and my community.” – Educafin Student

Canada and Mexico have been strengthening their ties, now allowing Mexicans to visit Canada without a tourist visa and Mexico allowing the sale of Canadian beef. As our Nations grow closer together, Algonquin College is proud to be a part of developing the talents and skills of young students and mid-career professionals. We hope our summer students will spread the word, Algonquin College is a great place to learn.

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