Universities aren’t placing enough emphasis on bilingualism, according to a recent report by Graham Fraser, Canada’s commissioner of official languages.

The study, titled “Two Languages, A World of Opportunities: Second-Language Learning in Canada’s Universities,” provided an assessment of 84 universities and their efforts to develop second-language skills in students.

“What we found through this study is that some universities offer second-language courses to students, but there is a definite lack of more intensive second-language learning opportunities,” Fraser said.

While students must obtain a French credit to graduate from high school, no such requisition exists in university, which is an issue for some.

“[French] is kind of lost on the university level,” Jeff Tennant, associate professor for the French department, said. “High schools used to require more French language courses. Now, the onus is on the universities to pick up and set academic requirements that are in line with Canada’s requirements for official bilingualism.”

Fraser’s study noted it is the responsibility of the federal government and Canadian universities to prepare youth for an increasingly global job market — where language skills are essential for success.

“It’s important for students to recognize that in regards to globalization and internationalization, languages are gaining more and more importance,” Tennant said.

Chantal Dawar, co-ordinator of the certificate of business French program offered at Western, added the current economic climate has had an effect on the French programs universities have to offer.

“With the recession, every faculty and department has trouble with budget constraints,” Dawar said. “The budget is definitely tighter, and to put internships and programs in place, you need money.”

Western boasts a wide range of resources for students, including a Business French certificate for students looking to enter the working world with a strong knowledge of French business.

“We are unique at Western in this respect,” Dawar noted. “I did a survey about a year ago, and many universities offer French business courses, but not a program.”

Darren Meister, associate professor for the Richard Ivey School of Business, emphasized for students looking to work internationally, the ability to communicate is essential.

However, a knowledge of languages is also an asset for those looking for local jobs.

Tennant noted there are concerns about the renewal of public service, and a prediction there will be a turnover in public service positions.

“This means a large workforce of bilingual, university-educated people will be required,” Tennant said. “Not only French will be needed.”

While most students noted bilingualism is an important asset in the working world, many have chosen not to pursue it.

“It comes down to where you’re working and what you’re doing,” Nirleen Gill, a second-year social science student said in regards to the importance of French, citing bilingualism is only essential for certain job fields.