Jonathan Likongo, a student at Université de Montréal, had planned to visit his family in Kinshasa this summer after two years in Montreal but chose to stay in Canada to avoid potential travel complications. Canada implemented temporary entry restrictions for individuals from central Africa due to the Ebola outbreak. Specifically, foreign nationals who had recently visited the Democratic Republic of Congo were denied entry. These measures are in effect until Aug. 29.
These restrictions have impacted many students, including over 500 at various universities in Quebec. Université de Montréal alone has 170 new students from affected countries and 182 continuing students. Université Laval and Université du Québec à Montréal are also dealing with a significant number of affected students.
Hundreds of students impacted
Universities are assisting students by offering options such as deferring admission, remote learning, or delayed program starts. At Université de Montréal, undergraduates have until Aug. 29 to make changes, while graduate students have flexibility to begin later. Université Laval is evaluating situations individually to provide tailored solutions, and Université du Québec à Montréal is also working on a case-by-case basis.
Awaiting Future Developments
Students are eager to know the next steps post Aug. 29. Health Canada is closely monitoring the Ebola situation and will decide on further actions based on the latest information and collaboration with international partners.
Jonathan Likongo expressed disappointment at missing the opportunity to reunite with his family and hopes for a swift resolution to the situation, emphasizing the importance of ending the disease to facilitate family visits.