Welcome to the first edition of the International Insights newsletter, a monthly roundup of news, opportunities and updates with an international focus, curated by Western International for the Western community. 

Update on travel restrictions for international students 

On Friday, October 2, the Government of Canada announced an amendment to the current travel exemptions to allow more international students to travel to Canada, subject to the provincial approval of a COVID-19 readiness plan from universities.   

Western has submitted its proposed plan to the Province of Ontario but it is still pending approval. At this time, Western International is advising students to follow the current travel exemptions and advice until further notice. If students are studying remotely and are not currently exempt from travel restrictions, they should not make any arrangements to travel.  

We will provide updates to international students and the campus community as they become available. Questions can be sent to iesc@uwo.ca.

Call for project proposals

Academics without Borders is now accepting project proposals for capacity building projects in an institution of higher learning in the developing world.

Academics Without Borders’ projects are involved in the full range of university activities, from expanding and improving existing institutions and programs to helping create new ones. This year, they are focused especially on projects that can be implemented online using remote collaboration methods.

Submission deadline is November 6, 2020.

Mitacs Global Research Award program applications open

The Mitacs Globalink Research Award (GRA) program provides opportunities for Canadian senior undergraduate and graduate students (Master’s or PhD), and postdoctoral fellows to gain international research experience with universities located in Mitacs partner and eligible countries, and for international senior undergraduate and graduate students (Master’s or PhD) and postdoctoral fellows to gain research experience with eligible Canadian universities.

Apply by December 1, 2020 for Summer and Fall 2021 research experiences.

International Week 2020: Nov 16-20

Join us November 16-20 for virtual events, discussions and activities in celebration of all things international at Western! All are welcome so be sure to take some time to explore our #globalwesternu!

An annual event at many post-secondary institutions, International Week is an opportunity to highlight diversity at Western, engage students, faculty and staff in discussion and debate about international issues, and encourage learning about international education, intercultural skills, and cultural traditions and activities.

Western Heads East remotely

Despite challenges including a ban on international travel, navigating different time zones, unstable internet connections, and other pandemic-related obstacles, 20 Western students were determined to collaborate on community projects and participate in an international learning experience – even if it meant connecting with organizations virtually from across the world.

Did You Know?

Over the past few months, Western International and our campus partners have provided support to more than 400 students who arrived from abroad and were required to self-quarantine.

We will continue to provide support to students arriving throughout the fall term and into the winter term. Learn more on our International Arrival 2020 page. 

If you have ideas, suggestions or opportunities with an international focus to share, please let us know at wicomms@uwo.ca.