Durham College President Don Lovisa and Shashi Bhatia, chairperson of the Indo-Canadian Cultural Association of Durham Inc.’s (ICCAD), were joined by Dave Ryan, mayor, City of Pickering; Roger Anderson, chair, Durham Region; Durham College students, faculty and staff; and members of the community on Friday, September 21 as the college officially welcomed the ICCAD Career and Community Link Centre to the Oshawa campus.

“This is a special day at Durham College as we forge this partnership with the ICCAD,” said Lovisa. “This year we have more than 300 international students at the college, many of whom are from India. Working with the Career and Community Link Centre we will help our students make the necessary connections to successfully learn and live within our community.”

The centre will be assisting the college with the delivery of services to newly-arrived international students as they transition into the post-secondary education system in Canada. Keeping with Durham College’s vision of providing a vibrant campus that enriches the student life experience, ICCAD volunteers will provide a welcoming community, student mentorship and opportunities to experience Canadian culture; promote an inclusive society; and provide opportunities for students to get actively involved in the community.

“I’ve been at Durham College for four weeks,” said Trevor Fernandez, an Environmental Technology student who is from Mumbai. “It’s been amazing. I chose Durham College because success matters to me too. Knowing I have the college, ICCAD and all of you here with me has made me feel at home.”

The official opening of the centre fell during the celebration of Ganesh Pooja in India. The week is dedicated to the worship of Lord Ganesh – Lord of success and destroyer of evil and obstacles. Ganesh is worshipped as the God of education, knowledge, wisdom and wealth.