A memo posted on the school’s website says the provincial government has decided to shut down the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology. Radio Canada
The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology will close over the next year after a steep fall in international student enrollment left the school unable to continue operating. The Winnipeg-based post-secondary institution announced the decision Wednesday, citing major financial strain following federal limits on international students.
A memo released by the school said international enrollment declined by more than 55 percent, making the current funding model no longer workable. The memo first stated the provincial government directed the closure, but the school later removed that reference. The document also confirmed that some programs may move to RRC Polytech, though officials have not finalized details.
Revenue drops deepen financial strain
Provincial figures show international student revenue fell sharply, dropping nearly 60 percent from the 2024–25 school year to the current academic year. The decline cut revenue from $23.2 million to $9.5 million.
“For this institution, their revenue has dropped more than half in the previous year and then this year again,” said Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable.
Cable described the closure as “a direct result of the decision by the federal government to cut international students” and said she does not expect that policy to change soon.
Students are assured they can finish programs
MITT said it will work closely with the province and RRC Polytech to support students during the transition. The school offers training in many fields, including early childhood education, welding, carpentry, cybersecurity, English language studies, and high school and adult learning programs.
“All current MITT students will be able to complete their programs,” Cable said. “Every student will be able to finish their program, and every credential that's come from MITT will be recognized.”
Officials continue to review where and when students will complete their studies.
Political debate over responsibility
Opposition voices challenged the government’s position. Lac du Bonnet MLA Wayne Ewasko said the province should shoulder responsibility for the closure. He noted that international student caps affect schools across the country, not just MITT.
“They knew a couple of years ago that the numbers were going to be reduced by the federal government. What were the alternative plans?” he said, questioning whether the province considered added funding to keep the school open.
Students and community react
MITT served 4,663 students during the 2024–25 school year. Nearly 2,000 of them came from outside Canada.
Former international student Trixie Ho, who moved from Vietnam to study hairstyling, said the news left her disappointed. “There are some students who really want to go to MITT, but now they have no chance,” she said.
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham said MITT trained skilled workers the city needs and expressed concern for students and staff facing uncertainty.
Staff future remains unclear
RRC Polytech president Fred Meier said a review will determine which programs may transfer, noting overlap between the two institutions. He stressed the closure does not reflect the quality of MITT’s work.
Cable said staffing remains unchanged for now but acknowledged “very real potential” that some staff may not find positions at RRC Polytech. She confirmed the school will not close during the current academic year.
Industry leaders also voiced concern. “That is a big hole that this announcement creates for education and training,” said Chris Lorenc of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association.
