Jonathan Likongo, a student at Université de Montréal, had planned to visit his family in Kinshasa after two years in Montreal. However, due to concerns about potential travel restrictions, he chose to stay in Canada.
His decision proved prescient as Canada implemented temporary entry restrictions for certain foreign nationals from central African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C.) due to the Ebola outbreak. The measures, in effect until August 29, also prohibited entry for individuals who had been to the D.R.C. within the past 21 days.
Likongo, a member of the Congolese Students’ Association at Université de Montréal, highlighted the challenges faced by students who had planned to travel during the summer break amidst these unforeseen restrictions.
Impact on Students
Quebec universities reported that hundreds of students are affected by these measures, with some already enrolled and others preparing to start their studies. Université de Montréal has 170 new students from the D.R.C. or Sudan for the fall semester, along with 182 continuing students. Similarly, Université Laval and Université du Québec à Montréal have significant numbers of affected students, necessitating individualized solutions.
While universities are assisting students in navigating these challenges, those outside Canada are eager to know what will happen after August 29. Health Canada indicated that it is closely monitoring the Ebola situation and will decide on further steps before the current measures expire.
Awaiting Resolution
For Likongo and others separated from their families, the hope is for a swift resolution to the situation to reunite with their loved ones. They remain optimistic that the disease will be contained, allowing them to travel freely once again.
