òòò½ÎÑ

To all òòò½ÎÑ students and members of our òòò½ÎÑ community: 

It is hard to believe that it is already February! For our òòò½ÎÑ students, many of you will be preparing for Winter Break – whether that means time to study and work on projects, or an opportunity to take some time off and relax (or perhaps both!) – we wish you the best over the next few days.  

As many of you will be aware, colleges across the country are experiencing challenges related to decreasing enrolment, and in particular following changes made by the federal government that impact international students in Canada. 

At òòò½ÎÑ, we know that students, faculty, instructors and others across our òòò½ÎÑ community are wondering about potential changes. I want to provide you with some assurance this morning about what’s happening here – and to make sure you know, we are here for you.  

No program closures 

To date, òòò½ÎÑ has not closed or cancelled any programs, and we do not have plans to take this step in the coming months. 

If you are a current student, please know that you will be able to continue and complete your studies. While there may be fewer sections offered in some areas, we are working hard to give you choices in your schedule that will meet your needs. 

All campuses are open – and will stay open 

òòò½ÎÑ has four main campuses in our region: Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm. We are committed to each of these locations and are proud of how each campus provides a welcoming place for students and community members.  

In other communities, including Revelstoke and Oliver, we have strong history and commitment as well – and will continue to make programs and supports available to students as possible, through different partnerships and innovations and with a goal to support local labour market needs.   

Apply and register early!  

Just like other post-secondary institutions, there are minimum numbers of students required in each course and program.  

Applications are open for Summer and Fall 2025! If someone you know is interested in and considering enrolling at òòò½ÎÑ, encourage them to apply today. By taking this step, they’ll help us understand the demand for their program – so we can plan and make decisions about how and where to offer it in the best way possible.  

Questions about applying to òòò½ÎÑ? Email askòòò½ÎÑ@okanagan.bc.ca to connect with our student recruitment team today. 

Supports available 

Over the coming weeks and months, we know that the College will be making changes that impact faculty, instructors and other òòò½ÎÑ employees, as we respond to declining enrolment in some areas. 

This will be difficult for all of us at òòò½ÎÑ â€“ and it is important that we take care of each other and ourselves. 

If you have questions about your program, please contact your Dean’s office, the Registrar’s Office, or an Education Advisor (askòòò½ÎÑ@okanagan.bc.ca).  

Current òòò½ÎÑ students can also access a wide range of support through Student Services, including Counselling Services. To book a counselling appointment, visit this page. Students can also access mental health support 24/7 through the Province of BC’s  p²¹²µ±ð. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;

Being a part of the òòò½ÎÑ community 

As the Provost of òòò½ÎÑ, the best part of my job is meeting students and hearing about your experiences at òòò½ÎÑ, what you’re learning and how you’re applying it outside of school. I love hearing about how faculty and instructors inspire you to try something new or to tackle challenges with different perspectives, and at convocation and commencement – I think I clap almost as loud as all the family members in the audience! 

òòò½ÎÑ has been an integral part of our region for over 60 years, and all of our students contribute something special to our story and our impact.  

Even as we navigate challenges and make difficult decisions as an institution, we know òòò½ÎÑ will continue to play an important role in the communities we serve.  

Thank you for being a part of òòò½ÎÑ! 

Dr. Samantha Lenci 

Provost and VP, Academic