Mr. Chair, I'd like to thank the honourable member for the question.
Our department is committed to addressing low visa issuance and study permit approval rates for those from French-speaking countries in Africa and elsewhere to support Quebec's immigration plan and Canada's competitive edge.
As the minister said, we are taking measures to address unconscious bias and to ensure consistency in decision-making. All decision-makers processing applications from Africa have completed Government of Canada training to recognize and counter unconscious bias. We're reviewing immigration program outcomes to identify all institutional mechanisms that contribute to any inequitable outcomes for clients to further mitigate against bias.
We've also made efforts to attract eligible students in Africa and to increase acceptance rates by engaging in outreach to those partners as well as at public events. Our IRCC offices located in Africa participate in events, such as EduCanada and ÉduQuébec, and regularly host webinars to help explain the study permit application process and requirements.