TORONTO: In the midst of escalating tensions between India and Canada, the University of Toronto has unequivocally pledged its support to both students and faculty grappling with issues related to stress, mental health, and immigration.
The institution has proactively launched a comprehensive array of resources aimed at addressing these pressing concerns, encompassing academic support services, visa assistance, and a dedicated mental health platform. Notably, the academic support services comprise a specialized helpdesk for undergraduate students, affording them direct access to faculty members and college registrars. Meanwhile, graduate students are encouraged to seek assistance from their respective departments or the School of Graduate Studies.
Moreover, the University has taken a significant step by introducing personal support services, which prominently feature a dedicated mental health portal. This initiative also includes the U of T Telus Health Student Support program, ensuring round-the-clock access to support via telephone or online chat for students facing mental health challenges.
In a statement posted on its official website, the University expressed its pride in hosting over 2,400 international students from India, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the academic milieu and campus life. The institution further acknowledged the myriad connections shared between its students, faculty, staff, librarians, and alumni with ties to India. These connections have fostered meaningful collaborations in diverse fields and have offered students unparalleled global learning opportunities.
Despite recent disruptions in visa processing for travelers from Canada, the University remains committed to strengthening its bonds with India. It emphasizes the continuation of these relationships through virtual interactions, with a shared objective of effecting positive change on both local and global scales.
Last week, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an advisory urging caution among Indian nationals in Canada and those planning to visit the country, given the strained relations between the two nations. The MEA specifically advised Indian nationals and students in Canada to avoid regions and venues that have witnessed an uptick in anti-India activities.
In a gesture of support, the Consulate General of India in Toronto has extended its consular services to Indian nationals in Canada. This registration process aims to facilitate better communication between the High Commission, Consulates General, and Indian citizens in Canada, particularly in the event of emergencies or unforeseen incidents, in accordance with MEA guidelines.
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