On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexico’s President Enrique Peña Nieto announced their intention to strengthen educational ties between the two countries – including making it easier for students to participate in exchange programs between the two countries. As part of the announcement, reference was made to the consortium of Canadian and Mexican postsecondary institutions, which includes the University of Lethbridge, that supports education for Indigenous youth and women.
The U of L believes strengthening educational ties with Mexico benefits students in both countries. We know our students benefit greatly from international exchanges and opportunities, and international students enrich our University community.
The U of L is located on Blackfoot traditional land and the university is committed to the Indigenous communities in southern Alberta and beyond. Last year, a group of 25 Indigenous women from Mexico had the unique opportunity to learn about First Nations culture and practice their English language skills at the U of L. This opportunity arose from a partnership agreement between the University and the State of Quintana Roo, Mexico and came about as a result of the U of L’s involvement with the consortium referenced by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Removing barriers between our two countries will strengthen educational experiences for all students and provide important international opportunities that will benefit our future alumni, and by extension, their communities. The U of L looks forward to continuing and expanding its educational partnerships with Mexican universities and colleges.
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Contact:
Caroline Zentner, public affairs advisor
403-394-3975 or 403-795-5403 (cell)
