During his opening remarks, Ambassador Martin Tlapa praised the ongoing cooperation between Czech and Canadian universities, successful student exchanges and expressed support for deeper cooperation within the Horizon Europe research programme and, in the context of geopolitical changes, emphasized the importance of our partnership.  

The Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS) provided a comprehensive overview of the Czech education system and academic environment. The large number of international students choosing the Czech Republic, excellent university rankings, accessible student life, the supportive ESN Buddy Programme which facilitates the integration of international students, and academic research centres of European importance were all highlighted. 

Representatives of McGill University and Queen's University also shared their positive experiences about their partnerships with Czech universities. Canadian students from these universities liked the Czech Republic because of its affordable housing, student life, cultural diversity and safety. The Prague University of Economics and Business is one of the top five destinations for Canadian students from Queen’s University’s Smith School of Business.  

Two Canadian students shared their experiences of studying in the Czech Republic. They especially appreciated the friendliness with which they were welcomed by local students, safety, reasonable costs of living and the ideal location that allowed them to easily travel around the Czech Republic and Europe. They also praised the high quality of education, wide range of subjects and courses, inclusive environment of the Czech universities, reliable public transport and the various cultural events.  

The programme included a short informative session on the Youth Mobility Agreement, which highlighted the conditions for easy entry visas for young Canadians to study, work or travel. This programme plays a key role in enabling student exchanges and strengthening ties between Canada and the Czech Republic.  

The webinar reaffirmed the Czech Republic's position as an attractive and accessible destination for Canadian students and provided resources to assist universities assess opportunities for new exchange partnerships. Following the webinar, further inter-faculty and inter-university student exchange agreements are expected to be established. The deepening of these ties and increased participation in exchange programs will undoubtedly benefit universities and their students. We sincerely thank all participants for their interest and look forward to further cooperation and the development of Czech-Canadian academic relations. 

 

Daniel Plochy, Intern, Embassy of the Czech Republic in Ottawa