Cairo opens to UPEI students

The University of Prince Edward Island has established a new international exchange program with Misr International University in Cairo.

'Having a chance to spend a year somewhere else can really open your eyes to what the rest of the world is like.' — James Reddin, UPEI

The number of international exchange programs at UPEI has more than doubled in the last five years. The university describes them as an important learning opportunity.

"For some students, starting at UPEI is a nice safe place. It's close to home," student counsellor James Reddin told CBC News Tuesday.

"But there's a point where, you know, P.E.I. can be a small place sometimes, and so opening up those doors to completing your education with a UPEI degree, something that's recognized, but having a chance to spend a year somewhere else can really open your eyes to what the rest of the world is like."

Even students who choose not to go on an international exchange benefit from meeting students coming to P.E.I. from countries such as Egypt, Sweden and Australia, Reddin said.

Students in at least their second year of study can take courses towards their degrees in another country, while paying UPEI tuition rates.

The university continues to explore as many of these learning experiences as possible, Reddin said.

The exchange with Misr International University is the first for UPEI in the Middle East.