International News - Around the World in Higher Education and Research, by News Tank Academic - Nr. 21

Canada has streamlined co-op work permit regulations; in the US, a judge has ruled that the Trump administration cannot compel colleges to provide race-related data; New Zealand universities state that government subsidies are insufficient to meet student numbers; South Africa and China are enhancing their collaboration in science and technology.

Welcome to the new edition of News Tank Academic's roundup of international news. Every week, we bring you a selection of some of the most important developments in higher education from around the world.

Headline news

Canada eases co-op work permit requirements

Canada has removed the requirement for international students on co-op placements or work-integrated programmes to obtain a separate work permit alongside their study permit. Announced on 09/04/2026 (and effective from 01/04/2026), the change means students now need only one permit to complete their course, provided work placements are approved by their institution.

The reform has been widely welcomed as a practical step that reduces administrative burden, simplifies the student…