In almost two decades, the partnership between Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Continental Institute for International Studies (CIIS) has seen almost 300 international students travel overseas to study at the BC Interior university.

To celebrate that long and vital relationship, TRU recently welcomed a delegation from CIIS in India.

Not only did the visit strengthen existing ties, it also sparked engaging discussions on expanding collaboration on transnational education programs, potentially opening doors to new opportunities.

TRU President Brett Fairbairn shares some thoughts with CIIS President Lt. Col. (retired) B. S. Sandhu.

“For four decades, TRU has been at the forefront of international education, and partnerships like ours with CIIS have been instrumental in shaping that journey,” said Baihua Chadwick, vice-president International.

“As we build on these partnerships, on an ongoing foundation of mutual respect and shared vision, we will continue to be a leader in crafting truly global learning experiences.”

Led by CIIS President Lt. Col. (retired) B.S. Sandhu and Chief Executive Officer Deepak Kochhar, the delegation met with TRU’s leadership team, including President Brett Fairbairn, Vice-President International Baihua Chadwick and deans and representatives from several faculties and departments.

“This visit underscores our commitment to strengthening our partnership with TRU and further enhancing the educational opportunities available to our students through our Canada Pathway Programs,” said Sandhu.

The partnership between TRU and CIIS began in 2005 with computing science, and has expanded or is expanding into nursing, culinary arts, tourism, trades and education. During those years, 289 students have transferred to TRU from CIIS.

TRU and CIIS jointly offer years one and two of the TRU Computing Science Diploma Program in India. After successfully completing the diploma, students can join the third year of the TRU Bachelor of Computing Science degree.

Currently, there are 74 CIIS students enrolled at TRU, some of whom have earned places on the dean’s list.

During the Kamloops visit, the partners discussed opportunities to explore new accreditation options and program offerings that would give students from both institutions enhanced international education opportunities. Both institutions plan to finalize details of new programs soon.

TRU has more than 50 partner institutions across 25 countries and continues to expand its transnational education footprint so students can choose from diverse educational paths.