FILIPINO students can study while working as caregivers in Canada through a new program offered by internationally accredited education provider Oxford International Education Group.
He said the program is being offered first in the Philippines, with the first students expected to start their course next month.
Under the program, Caldwell said students will study at the East Coast International College in Canada, which has been acquired by Oxford International, for a 40-week caregiving course that will equip them with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to deliver appropriate and respectful care once they graduate.
He explained that the course’s blended learning approach combines technical, employability and other essential care-giving skills.
“Placements for successful program graduates may occur in a variety of settings such as home care, nursing homes and home for the aged,” Caldwell said.
He said the students can even work as caregivers while studying, allowing them to earn while completing their course.
Tuition for the 40-week course is set at 20,000 Canadian dollars but he vowed that every graduate will be able to land a job and recoup their expenses. If they do not find a job, Caldwell said Oxford International will return their tuition in full.
He said Filipinos are being favored in the program because they are known worldwide for being compassionate and caring.
“The Filipino homegrown values like deep respect for the elderly and close family ties are intrinsic traits needed for a career as a caregiver,” Caldwell said.
Caldwell said they will also link with government agencies such as the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, which also provides training and certification to Filipinos who want to work abroad, including caregivers.
At present, there are more than 840,000 Filipinos and Filipino-Canadian living and working in Canada, making them the fourth largest minority after South Asian, Chinese and Blacks.
With additional report: MALAYA Business Insight – Ashzel Hachero
