Keyano College is seeing international students return to campus for the first time in around 18 months.

The post-secondary school is set to welcome 175 individuals from over 30 different countries in the coming days.

“We are thrilled to welcome these new students to Keyano and to Canada,” said Sandra Efu, Director of Student Services and International Education.

“We haven’t been able to meet incoming international students since the beginning of the pandemic, so this year, in partnership with Fort McMurray International airport, we’re hosting a welcome service and desk directly at the airport, ensuring that our new residents get the best possible start to their student experience.”

The number of international students coming this year is around 25 per cent more than what they saw last year.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these individuals had to continue their education online.

This increase comes months after Keyano and Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism partnered in an attempt to attract more international students.

Through the multi year agreement, they’re hoping to see a 70 percent increase in enrollment in international students, which in turn is expected to have an annual economic impact of over $3 million dollars for the region.