Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology to Wind Down After Drop in Enrolment

The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT), a post-secondary institution in Winnipeg known for vocational and technical training programs, is winding down operations over the next year due to sharply declining enrolment. The school’s leadership says its current financial model has become unsustainable after international student numbers fell dramatically in recent months.

MITT reported that international student enrolment — once a significant part of its student body — dropped by more than 55 per cent following recent changes to Canada’s international student policies. Institution officials and provincial leaders have attributed the decline to rapid federal policy changes that reduced allocations and created uncertainty for prospective students abroad, making it difficult for the institute to maintain stable revenue and long-term planning.

In response to these challenges, MITT announced it will begin a phased wind-down of operations, with some programs and services transitioning to Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) over the coming year. Administrators say the move is intended to preserve training opportunities for students and maintain pathways for those already enrolled.

Officials emphasized that current students should be able to complete their studies without interruption, whether within MITT’s existing framework or through transfer arrangements with RRC Polytech. A comprehensive review of MITT’s programs is expected to guide decisions on which courses will continue under the new arrangements, with consultations planned among students, industry partners, and educational stakeholders.

The closure marks a significant shift for the Winnipeg education landscape, highlighting broader challenges facing Canadian institutions that have relied heavily on international tuition revenue. Educators and community leaders have expressed concern about the loss of a key training provider, particularly in trades and technical fields where skilled workers are in demand.

Provincial education officials and MITT leadership said they will provide further updates as planning continues and will seek to support students, faculty and staff through the transition process.