A return trip to Kinshasa this summer was anticipated by Jonathan Likongo as an opportunity to reunite with his family following two years of studying and residing in Montreal. However, the Université de Montréal student opted to remain in Canada out of concern that leaving might hinder his re-entry. Likongo stated, “I was planning to depart, but I decided to stay as a precaution.” This decision proved beneficial.
In response to the Ebola outbreak, Canada implemented temporary restrictions on entry for specific foreign nationals from various central African countries in May. Subsequently, in July, Canada announced that foreign nationals who had visited the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C.) within the past 21 days would be denied entry. These measures are set to be in effect until August 29.
Likongo, a member of the Congolese Students’ Association at Université de Montréal, highlighted the challenges faced by students who had intended to travel during the summer break. He mentioned, “The outbreak coincided with the holiday season, catching some individuals off guard.”
Several universities in Quebec disclosed that the measures could impact hundreds of students, including those already enrolled and those scheduled to commence studies in the upcoming fall term. Université de Montréal reported admitting 170 students from the D.R.C. or Sudan for the fall, with an additional 182 students from these countries already enrolled. Université Laval indicated that they have 240 students from the D.R.C., South Sudan, and Uganda, while Université du Québec à Montréal estimated around 100 affected students.
The universities are collaborating with students to address the situation proactively. At Université de Montréal, undergraduate students have until August 29 to modify their registration, and graduate students have the option to commence their program within a year. Université Laval is offering personalized assessments for students, providing choices such as deferring admission, remote learning, or delayed arrival.
Regarding the future, students currently outside Canada are awaiting updates post August 29. Health Canada mentioned that they are closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak and reviewing the measures in conjunction with international partners. The government will decide on next steps before the current measures potentially expire.
For Likongo, the uncertainty resulted in missing a significant opportunity to reunite with his family. He expressed, “My family, both my mother and father, were devastated as we had plans to meet in Kinshasa this summer.” He remains optimistic, hoping for a prompt resolution and the end of the disease to facilitate family reunions.
