British  Columbia Heritage Language Association

The BCHLA was established in 1982 and is a nonprofit organization that actively promotes cross-cultural understanding through heritage, international language instruction and education. 

The BCHLA serves as the umbrella body for second language programs involved in the teaching of heritage and international languages.

The BCHLA's primary objectives include:

• supporting and promoting second language education

• assisting in the development of second language curricula and teaching materials

• supporting second language instructor training and skill development

• administrating international student exchanges

The BCHLA supports the view that international language education increases the level of respect and appreciation for multicuturalism and the diversity of Canadians.

The BC-Germany Student Exchange Program is administered by the BCHLA in Canada. In Germany it is administered by the Ministry of Education of the Rhineland-Palatinate.