Message from the President: Support for our students and community members during Canada’s diplomatic crisis with India

The following message was distributed to students, faculty, and staff by email on September 22, 2023.

Dear Members of the UPEI Community,

Recent media stories about deteriorating diplomatic relations between India and Canada may be causing you concern and generating feelings of uncertainty.

We want to reassure you that the University of Prince Edward Island is a safe place, and our focus remains on the health and well-being of all students—in particular, those from India or of Indian descent—during this time of tension and making certain they are supported.

International students bring important knowledge, diversity, and skills to UPEI and to PEI, and we continue to welcome them. We are fortunate to have students and employees from PEI, across the country, and around the world. This diversity is what makes our University strong.

I encourage all students who are experiencing unease to reach out to our support services at UPEI Student Affairs, including personal counselling (studentserv@upei.ca), and to connect with the International Student Office (irostu@upei.ca). In addition, students may also find help through: Campus Peer Support, a drop-in program led by peer supporters who have lived experience and training through the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the BIPOC Support Group, a program designed and led by UPEI Doctor of Psychology students that meets Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 pm, in Andrew Hall 142. Faculty and staff can view the full list of on-campus supports and services for employees on myUPEI.

Each of us has a key role in ensuring that UPEI is an inclusive, safe, and welcoming place to learn and work, especially when community members are facing challenges. I urge everyone to explore and find ways to build connections and a sense of community.

Regards,

Greg

GREG KEEFE, DVM, MSc, MBA (he/him)
President and Vice-Chancellor (Interim)
University of Prince Edward Island