The United States Department of Homeland Security, DHS, has proposed a $70,000 fee for international students seeking to participate in the country’s Optional Practical Training, OPT, programme.

The proposal is part of the latest efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration to tighten regulations surrounding foreign students and immigration.

Under the proposed rule, educational institutions would be required to pay $70,000 for each international student’s initial OPT application and $30,000 for every renewal.

The OPT programme allows eligible international students to gain temporary work experience in the United States in jobs related to their fields of study.

International students are generally eligible to work for up to one year after completing their studies through the programme, while graduates in certain science, technology, engineering and mathematics, STEM, fields can qualify for an additional two years.

The proposed fees could significantly affect Nigerian students and other international students who rely on OPT to gain professional experience in the United States after graduation.

American universities also depend heavily on international students, including Nigerians and students from other countries, for tuition revenue.

Meanwhile, technology companies and other businesses rely on international graduates to fill specialised and technical positions.

Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA, an association representing international education, said OPT provides international students with practical experience while helping employers address labour shortages, particularly in STEM-related fields.

“Driving away the talents, perspectives, and aspirations of international students will only hurt American innovation, economic growth, workforce development, and global leadership,” Aw said in a written statement.

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Last Updated on October 8, 2026 by Grace Simon

The Most Anticipated Games Coming Before the End of 2026

2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for gamers, with several highly anticipated titles expected to arrive before the year comes to an end. From action-packed adventures to racing, sports and role-playing games, players have plenty to look forward to.

Here are some of the games generating excitement among gamers:

1. Grand Theft Auto VI

Grand Theft Auto VI remains one of the biggest and most anticipated games in the world. Developed by Rockstar Games, the title returns players to Vice City and introduces protagonists Lucia and Jason.

The game is expected to deliver a huge open-world experience filled with missions, crime, exploration and Rockstar’s signature storytelling.

2. Resident Evil Requiem

For horror fans, Resident Evil Requiem is one of the major titles to watch. The game continues Capcom’s famous survival-horror franchise and promises an intense experience filled with mystery, danger and terrifying enemies.

Players can expect a combination of exploration, action and horror as they attempt to survive another nightmare.

3. The Witcher 4

CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 4 is another highly anticipated title. The game is expected to begin a new chapter in The Witcher universe while continuing the series’ tradition of massive open-world exploration and deep storytelling.

Although fans are still waiting for more information, anticipation surrounding the game remains extremely high.

4. Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra

Marvel fans have another major game to look forward to with Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra.

Set during World War II, the action-adventure title brings together Captain America and Black Panther in a story involving Hydra. The combination of Marvel characters, cinematic storytelling and action has made it one of the games fans are watching closely.

5. Fable

The return of Fable has generated significant excitement among RPG fans. The new title is being developed by Playground Games and is set to bring players back into the magical world of Albion.

The game is expected to combine fantasy, humor, exploration and player choices in a new adventure.

6. Pragmata

Capcom’s Pragmata is another interesting title attracting attention. The game is set in a mysterious futuristic world and follows a space-suited protagonist alongside a young girl named Diana.

With its unusual science-fiction setting and mysterious storyline, Pragmata could become one of the year’s most memorable releases.

7. Pokémon Winds

Pokémon remains one of the biggest gaming franchises, and Pokémon Winds is expected to attract huge attention from fans.

The game is anticipated to introduce new Pokémon adventures, characters and gameplay elements while maintaining the franchise’s familiar appeal.

8. Crimson Desert

Crimson Desert is an ambitious open-world action-adventure game that has attracted attention for its impressive visuals and large-scale world.

Players will explore the continent of Pywel while following Kliff, a warrior caught in a dangerous struggle for survival and power.

9. The Blood of Dawnwalker

The Blood of Dawnwalker is an upcoming dark-fantasy RPG that has generated interest among fans of story-driven games.

The title promises a dark world filled with supernatural elements, difficult choices and intense combat, making it one to watch for players who enjoy fantasy adventures.

10. The Alters

The Alters offers something different from traditional action games. The sci-fi survival game focuses on a character who creates different versions of himself to survive on a dangerous alien planet.

Its unique concept and psychological storyline have helped make it one of the more unusual games on the upcoming release list.

Last Updated on October 8, 2026 by Grace Simon

Canada has reminded foreign workers in the country of key requirements they must follow to ensure they continue working legally.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said having a valid work permit is the first step to working legally in Canada.

The department shared the reminder in a post on its official social media account, urging foreign workers to understand the conditions attached to their permits and take action when their circumstances change.

According to IRCC, foreign workers should take the following three steps:

1. Understand the conditions on your work permit

Foreign workers are expected to understand and comply with the conditions listed on their work permits.

These conditions may determine what type of work they can do and other requirements attached to their authorisation to work in Canada.

2. Apply to extend your work permit before it expires

IRCC advised foreign workers who need to continue working in Canada to apply for an extension at least 30 days before their current work permit expires.

Workers should check the expiry date on their permit and make the necessary application early to avoid complications.

3. Apply to change your work permit conditions when necessary

Foreign workers whose circumstances require different work conditions should apply to have their permit conditions changed.

IRCC stressed that workers should ensure their work permits accurately reflect the conditions under which they are authorised to work.

The department’s reminder highlights the importance of maintaining valid work authorisation and complying with the conditions attached to a Canadian work permit.

Foreign workers are encouraged to review their permits regularly and take the necessary steps before their documents expire or their circumstances change.

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Last Updated on September 13, 2026 by Grace Simon