The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology. (MITT.CA)
The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) will begin winding down operations after a sharp decline in international student enrolment.
In a statement on Wednesday, MITT said its current financial model is unsustainable after federal government changes to the international student program.
MITT says it has seen international student numbers fall by more than 55 percent as a result of the changes.
“Institutions have faced financial and operational shocks that they could not reasonably anticipate or absorb,” MITT said.
As part of the transition, select MITT programs will move to Red River College Polytechnic. The process will take place over the next year, with some programs and services continuing beyond that timeline under RRC Polytech’s oversight.
Existing students will be able to complete their studies without interruption. Programming for post-secondary students, high school learners, adult education, English language training, and industry-based training will continue during the transition.
According to MITT’s 2024 annual report, the school has more than 4,600 students.
A comprehensive review of MITT programs will be launched, with consultations involving students, partner institutions, school divisions, and industry stakeholders.
Students with questions are encouraged to contact transition@mitt.ca.
According to recent figures released by the province, the federal policy saw Manitoba’s international student allocations decline to 11,196 in 2026 from 18,591 in 2025, a reduction of 40 percent.
“These reductions make it difficult for institutions to plan for the long term as they rely on stable student numbers to deliver high-quality education,” said Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable, earlier this month.
“The federal government made its decision without consultation and without consideration for the real-world impacts on provinces like Manitoba.”
MITT operates four campuses in Winnipeg and one in Morden, along with several adult learning centre locations.
