Home / Education / Vancouver College Slashes Learning Disability Program
Vancouver College Slashes Learning Disability Program
9 May
Summary
- VCC is reducing capacity in its Employment Access program.
- The college cited financial woes from reduced international students.
- Graduates highlight program's importance for confidence and job skills.
Vancouver Community College (VCC) is implementing significant cutbacks to its program supporting students with learning difficulties and cognitive disabilities. The Employment Access and Skills Development (EASD) program will see reduced capacity starting this fall.
While three full-time classes will continue, they will now operate on an alternating yearly schedule. VCC has also completely paused part-time program admissions. The college attributes these changes to financial pressures, particularly the decline in international student enrollment and associated tuition revenue.
These adjustments are part of broader financial challenges impacting VCC, which has also paused intake for its nursing program this year. Post-secondary institutions nationwide are facing similar constraints due to federal and provincial policies limiting international student numbers.
EASD program alumni and their families underscore the program's vital impact. Graduates report increased confidence, improved time management, and essential job-related skills. The reductions raise concerns among students and advocates about access to crucial training and support services.
