CTTIC calls for the immediate reinstatement of SFU’s interpretation and translation program
Ottawa, May 16, 2024.
The Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC) wishes to express its deep consternation in the face of the recently announced closure of Simon Fraser University’s interpretation and translation programs by next month.
SFU’s eight-month Interpretation and Translation program offered in Mandarin Chinese or Japanese/English is the only program of its kind in Canada. The loss of this program will severely hinder access to essential services in many areas of daily living by Chinese and Japanese first-language speakers who may not be able to communicate in English.
This closure is the latest episode in the gradual erosion of university-level translation and interpretation programs across Canada over the past few years.
“In an increasingly multicultural and multi-ethnic society, Canada and, in this case, British Columbia cannot afford to lose an interpretation and translation program that is critical to the well-being of such an important segment of our society,” stated Marielle Godbout, President of CTTIC.
“The recent decision to close all translation and interpreting programs at Simon Fraser University (SFU) marks a significant setback for our community here in British Columbia. Translation and interpreting services are essential to fostering inclusive and thriving communities, facilitating communication across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The closure of these programs undermines the capacity of our province to train the next generation of professional interpreters and translators, who play a crucial role in facilitating integration and engagement in our community,” stated Silvia Xalabardé, Chair of CTTIC’s Board of Examiners and President of the Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC (STIBC).
Information:
Marielle Godbout: president@cttic.org
Silvia Xalabardé: chair@cttic.org