Fanshawe College is continuing its long-standing reputation as a hub for international students as it takes part in a government-funded bridge program. The federal and provincial governments' investment into the endeavour in Ontario totals $57 million, which will be distributed to cities all across the province. London will see $1.3 million of this, and this funding will be put toward training for internationally educated nurses and human resource workers at Fanshawe College.

The money will be used through WIL Employment Connections (141 Dundas St.) and the London Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council, who will host a group mentorship program and help international professionals acquire information and gain licensure to work in Ontario. A London Job Match Network will also be re-launched to help workers find jobs.

Fanshawe College President Howard Rundle said he is confident the investment in the school will reap benefits for those attending the college in the nursing and HR programs. “Fanshawe College is proud to provide the education opportunities that make southwestern Ontario an appealing destination for newcomers to Canada. These bridging programs integrate the skills of internationally trained workers with provincial requirements so they are well prepared to enter the workforce.” Over 20 students will study at Fanshawe to upgrade their credentials and potentially find work in Ontario's market.

Heba Sol is a member of the bridge program in human resources. She said that she, as well as the other international students, hopes that the choice of moving to Canada will pay off in the long run. “We came to Canada seeking better opportunity, better life, and this program is a good opportunity for us because it's linking us between what we used to study and what the market in Canada needs.”

London's unemployment rate as of June 2012 is on par with the Ontario average at 7.9 per cent, according to Statistics Canada, which is a huge increase from last year's June average of 8.7 per cent. When asked whether she's confident her education here will pay dividends, Sol's answer was simple: “Yes, I hope so.”