A Shift in Leadership: The Disbanding of the Executive Director Role at Global Affairs Canada's International Education Division

The role of executive director of the International Education Division of Global Affairs Canada (GAC) is set to be disbanded, a decision revealed by The PIE News. Jean-Philippe Tachdjian, who has been a significant advocate for international education in this position, will be reassigned within the trade commissioner service in the coming months.

Strategic Consolidation

This move is understood to be part of a broader consolidation process within GAC and is not directly related to the temporary cap on international student numbers. The department is undergoing an internal reorganisation of management duties and budgets, aligning them with the current strategy themes of digital marketing, scholarships, diversification, and education agents.

Maintaining the Mission

The International Education Division within GAC, currently led by Tachdjian, plays a crucial role in enhancing Canada’s profile abroad and attracting international students to Canadian educational institutions. Responsibilities include managing the EduCanada brand and developing a new international education strategy, set for release in the fall of 2024.

Stakeholder Concerns

The decision comes at a time when key international education stakeholders across Canada are calling for a more integrated "whole-of-government" approach to international education exports. Many fear the loss of a key champion in the role of executive director will further jeopardize the ability to deliver cohesive policy and represent a setback for the sector. 

Government Criticism

The Canadian government and Immigration Minister Marc Miller have faced criticism for the lack of consultation in making policy changes. Stakeholders are concerned that the disbanding of the executive director role will exacerbate these issues, making it harder to deliver coordinated and effective policies.

A Positive Outlook

Despite concerns, some see this change as an opportunity for innovation. Virginia Macchiavello, associate vice president for international development at Centennial College, expressed a positive outlook, stating, "I see it as an opportunity. Are we making all the right decisions? Probably not, and we may have to adjust and balance these decisions [in the future], but as we do this, we can come together to look at the opportunities that are forcing us to look outside the box."

Conclusion

Jean-Philippe Tachdjian, who has served as executive director since September 2022, will be transitioning out of his current role. While he declined to comment on the move, the focus now shifts to how Global Affairs Canada will navigate this reorganisation and continue to support and promote international education in Canada. The sector awaits a formal comment from Global Affairs Canada as stakeholders brace for the impacts of this significant shift in leadership.