Entrepreneurship Archives - Global Engagement /global-engagement/category/entrepreneurship/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:05:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 91亚色 welcomes Swedish education leaders /global-engagement/2026/04/07/york-welcomes-swedish-education-leaders/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:05:47 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=54481 On 27 and 28 March, 91亚色 and Toronto Metropolitan University were pleased to co-host a delegation of Swedish university leaders for two days of thoughtful discussion on international research collaboration, science diplomacy and strategic partnerships. At TMU, 91亚色鈥檚 Pina D'Agostino and Ravi de Costa were excellent panelists, helping to frame how universities can act […]

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On 27 and 28 March, 91亚色 and Toronto Metropolitan University were pleased to co-host a delegation of Swedish university leaders for two days of thoughtful discussion on international research collaboration, science diplomacy and strategic partnerships. At TMU, 91亚色鈥檚 Pina D'Agostino and Ravi de Costa were excellent panelists, helping to frame how universities can act as strategic actors in a changing geopolitical environment and how institutional priorities can be scaled internationally.

91亚色 was proud to welcome the Swedish delegation to Keele Campus for a program that included opening remarks from Interim President Lisa Philipps and Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif, a rich discussion on research security in a dynamic global risk environment, and a forward-looking session on strategic research partnerships between Canada and Sweden towards Horizon 2027 and beyond.

The breadth of Canadian research excellence was exemplified by colleagues including 91亚色 researchers Satinder Kaur Brar, Michaela Hynie, Ali Asgary, Eric Kennedy and Tara Haas, alongside TMU researchers Rania Hamza, Elsayed Elbeshbishy, Abbas Ghasemi. The day closed with a strong panel on strategic international partnership development featuring Anders Hagfeldt, Vice Chancellor at Uppsala University, President and CEO of the Council of Ontario Universities Steve Orsini and Douglas Proctor, PhD

We were delighted to be part of these conversations and look forward to building on the connections and opportunities that emerged from the visit from our valued Swedish colleagues.

Many thanks to Stockholm University, Sveriges universitets- och h枚gskolef枚rbund (SUHF), Linnaeus University, Lule氓 University of Technology, University of Gothenburg, Sophiahemmet University, S枚dert枚rn University, Swedish Red Cross University, Uppsala University, M盲lardalen University, Ume氓 University, 脰rebro University, University West, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Marie Cederschi枚ld University, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), The Swedish Higher Education Authority (UK脛), Karolinska Institutet, Kristianstad University and Konstfack.

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Global Research Excellence Fund launches 2025-26 Call /global-engagement/2025/09/25/global-research-excellence-fund-launches-2025-26-call/ Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:40:37 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=33550 91亚色 is advancing its global research leadership with the launch of an expanded Global Research Excellence (GRE) Fund for 2025-26.  Now entering its second year, the GRE Fund presents a new stream focused on recruiting exceptional postdoctoral researchers through international collaboration, reinforcing 91亚色鈥檚 role as a leader in globally connected, high-impact research.  鈥淕RE is a testament […]

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91亚色 is advancing its global research leadership with the launch of an expanded Global Research Excellence (GRE) Fund for 2025-26. 

Now entering its second year, the GRE Fund presents a new stream focused on recruiting exceptional postdoctoral researchers through international collaboration, reinforcing 91亚色鈥檚 role as a leader in globally connected, high-impact research. 

鈥淕RE is a testament to the success of 91亚色鈥檚 Global Engagement Strategy which strengthened institutional coordination and alignment on strategic international priorities,鈥 says Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor. 鈥淭he expansion of the Global Research Excellence Fund this year to include the joint recruitment of outstanding postdocs with international partners is another step on our path to ensuring that the best and the brightest come to 91亚色 to put their talents to work for our students, Canada and the world.鈥 

A cornerstone of Engaging the World: 91亚色鈥檚 Internationalization and Global Engagement Strategy, the GRE Fund was introduced in 2024 to deepen international research ties, boost global impact and elevate 91亚色鈥檚 standing among top-tier research institutions. 

The inaugural call delivered impressive outcomes, reports 91亚色 International, including increased research income, new partnerships across priority regions and support for emerging research leaders tackling global grand challenges. 

This year鈥檚 expansion is Stream B: Global Post-Doctoral Researcher Award, co-developed with 91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Graduate Studies. This new stream enables 91亚色 researchers to jointly recruit exceptional postdoctoral talent from Canada and abroad, with international partners.

鈥91亚色 has a long history of attracting top globally diverse talent from around the world,鈥 adds Amir Asif, vice-president research and innovation. 鈥淲e believe in fostering global collaboration 鈥 showing that openness to working with the world, even in times of great uncertainty, creates win-win outcomes for all.鈥 

The GRE program continues to offer Stream A: Strategic Partnership Exploration & Development, providing seed funding for 91亚色-led initiatives that build new international research collaborations and expand existing ones. Stream A also supports partnerships with the global South and Indigenous communities overseas. 

鈥淐ontinued investment in GRE reflects 91亚色鈥檚 commitment to inclusive, equitable partnerships that deliver impact for Canada and the world. At a time when some countries are stepping back, 91亚色 is choosing to lead,鈥 says Lisa Philipps, provost and vice-president academic. 

The GRE Fund is managed by the鈥疓lobal Strategic Initiatives team within 91亚色 International, in close partnership with the offices of the Vice-President Research and Innovation, Provost and President.

Learn how to apply to the GRE Fund. 

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New programs bridge career readiness gap, promote inclusion for Asian Canadian communities /global-engagement/2025/05/23/new-programs-bridge-career-readiness-gap-promote-inclusion-for-asian-canadian-communities/ Sat, 24 May 2025 01:02:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=33318 Two major initiatives aimed at supporting Asian Canadian communities will launch this month at 91亚色 through the Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP).  A unit of the 91亚色 Centre for Asian Research (YCAR), ABMP provides professional development and management training to officials and professionals from across Asia. It also offers career experience programs for Asian students studying at […]

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Two major initiatives aimed at supporting Asian Canadian communities will launch this month at 91亚色 through the Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP). 

A unit of the 91亚色 Centre for Asian Research (YCAR), ABMP provides professional development and management training to officials and professionals from across Asia. It also offers career experience programs for Asian students studying at home and abroad, while actively collaborating with Asian Canadian communities to support their growth and success.

The launch of these programs 鈥 which are designed to empower and uplift Asian Canadian communities 鈥 aligns with Asian Heritage Month and also marks the ABMP鈥檚 25-year milestone.

Sponsored by RBC, the Career|Fit Professional Experience Programs (running June to August 2025) offers Asian-identifying undergraduate students (ages 18 to 25) the opportunity to gain hands-on professional experience and develop essential career skills. Open to students at no cost, the programs bridge academic learning with real-world applications through experiential projects supervised by industry leaders from Fortune 500 companies.

鈥淲e are committed to helping young Asian leaders unlock their potential,鈥 says Elena Caprioni, ABMP鈥檚 program director. 鈥淐areer|Fit not only equips students with practical skills but also helps them explore career pathways and build confidence as they navigate their futures.鈥

The second initiative, which runs in partnership with NorthStar Special Needs Society, will present a series of workshops and panel discussions during National Accessibility Week, May 25 to 31.  is an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the experiences of individuals with disabilities in Asian-Canadian communities, reducing stigma through education and open dialogue and fostering inclusion by celebrating the contributions and potential of all community members.

鈥淭his collaboration reflects our broader mission of inclusivity and engagement,鈥 Caprioni says. 鈥淏y supporting the diverse needs of the Asian Canadian community, we aim to create a more connected and equitable society.鈥

These initiatives are emblematic of ABMP鈥檚 ability to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of the communities, adds Caprioni. From partnering with local not-for-profit organizations to creating innovative programs for youth and newcomers, ABMP鈥檚 impact continues to expand beyond its original vision.

Since its establishment in 2000, ABMP has worked to foster cross-cultural understanding and professional development between Canada and Asia training more than 10,000 educators, officials, faculty and students from Asia, says Bernie Frolic, ABMP executive director.

鈥淎s we celebrate 25 years, it鈥檚 inspiring to reflect on the bridges we鈥檝e built between Canada and Asia,鈥 says Frolic. 鈥淭hese new initiatives reaffirm our commitment to fostering understanding and creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation.鈥

With files from Elena Caprioni

Originally published in YFile.

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Future business leaders drive social innovation in Costa Rica /global-engagement/2025/04/25/future-business-leaders-drive-social-innovation-in-costa-rica/ Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:08:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=33330 By Deirdre Kelly In the lush hills of P茅rez Zeled贸n, Costa Rica, 91亚色鈥檚 Las Nubes EcoCampus shows how education can cross borders. At its centre is Casita Azul, a modest one-room library that serves as a hub for cultural exchange, community empowerment and collaboration. Recently, Casita Azul received a donation from Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA […]

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By Deirdre Kelly

In the lush hills of P茅rez Zeled贸n, Costa Rica, 91亚色鈥檚 Las Nubes EcoCampus shows how education can cross borders.

At its centre is Casita Azul, a modest one-room library that serves as a hub for cultural exchange, community empowerment and collaboration.

Recently, Casita Azul received a donation from Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA (EMBA) students at the Schulich School of Business 鈥 a gesture inspired by their experience during the program鈥檚 capstone course. But, this story is about more than a donation; it鈥檚 about how a week in Costa Rica is reshaping how future business leaders see their role in addressing global challenges.

Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA students in Costa Rica.

Three years ago, Schulich鈥檚 EMBA capstone was redesigned to focus on social and environmental issues, challenging students to apply business tools in unfamiliar contexts. The course culminates in a week-long immersion in Costa Rica, where students work with local youth to co-create business models using the social business model canvas. The goal: integrate economic, social and environmental priorities into innovative, culturally grounded solutions.

Geoffrey Kistruck, professor and RBC Chair in Social Innovation & Impact at Schulich, calls the experience transformative. 鈥淭he alternative business models co-designed with local youth combine solid business principles with highly contextualized realities,鈥 he says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not just academic 鈥 it鈥檚 about creating solutions that work within their lived experiences.鈥

Unlike typical study tours, the capstone is an intensive learning sprint. Mornings start with classroom sessions; afternoons, students collect insights and collaborate with local entrepreneurs. Evenings are for reflection and refining strategies. The business models they develop must be viable and address pressing social and environmental challenges.

Casita Azul plays a key role in this exchange. More than a library, it anchors the community and brings 91亚色鈥檚 work in advancing United Nations鈥 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its programs include literacy workshops, environmental education for schoolchildren and internet access 鈥 still rare in parts of P茅rez Zeled贸n. The library also hosts cultural exchanges connecting 91亚色 researchers, students and local residents.

Dana Craig, teaching and learning librarian at 91亚色, highlights Casita Azul鈥檚 role in fostering connections. 鈥淭he immersive experience transforms expectations. Students leave not just educated but motivated to act 鈥 whether through donations, teaching workshops or sharing their stories.鈥

This spirit of engagement inspired the EMBA cohort鈥檚 donation 鈥 a gesture neither planned nor solicited but born naturally from their time at Casita Azul. While philanthropy isn鈥檛 91亚色鈥檚 primary goal in Costa Rica, moments like this show how deep connection can spark meaningful action.

Rahim Dharamsi, director of development, institutional priorities, sees a deeper impact. 鈥淟as Nubes isn鈥檛 just a place 鈥 it becomes part of you. People leave wanting to contribute because they鈥檝e been part of something meaningful.鈥

Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA students during their capstone course in Costa Rica.

That sense of belonging and shared purpose is reflected in Casita Azul鈥檚 daily work. The library has become integral to life in P茅rez Zeled贸n, offering internet access, books and workshops on entrepreneurship, computer skills and environmental stewardship. Its programs respond to local needs 鈥 supporting women鈥檚 groups, collaborating with schools and hosting classes led by local experts. By working alongside the community, Casita Azul advances 91亚色鈥檚 mission while building capacity and opportunity in the Alexander Skutch Biological Corridor.

Not everyone sees such programs as an unqualified good. Critics of 鈥渧oluntourism鈥 question whether short-term visits create lasting change or risk reinforcing power imbalances. Kistruck acknowledges these concerns but emphasizes Schulich鈥檚 focus on co-creation, not charity. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not about coming in with solutions,鈥 he says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about working together to design something that fits their reality.鈥

That collaborative philosophy now shapes Schulich鈥檚 global outlook. Drawing on the lessons learned at Las Nubes, the school is launching a similar capstone course in Tanzania, where students will partner with local co-operatives to develop business models tailored to local needs.

鈥淎s future business leaders鈥 skills evolve, we will continue to adapt how we educate and deliver value to both local and global communities,鈥 Kistruck says.

Watch a video below.

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Unique 91亚色 U initiative mentors Indian and Canadian students with entrepreneurial drive /global-engagement/2024/12/18/unique-york-u-initiative-mentors-indian-and-canadian-students-with-entrepreneurial-drive/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:15:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=33473 By Gloria Suhasini With public and private partnerships in both countries, Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Schulich School of Business runs Together Mission, making startup dreams come true for several students and recent grads since 2021 91亚色鈥檚 Schulich School of Business successfully concluded the fifth edition of its Together Mission, recently. More […]

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By Gloria Suhasini

With public and private partnerships in both countries, Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Schulich School of Business runs Together Mission, making startup dreams come true for several students and recent grads since 2021

91亚色鈥檚 Schulich School of Business successfully concluded the fifth edition of its Together Mission, recently. More than 150 students from India and Canada participated in the unique mentoring and venture pitching competition.

A deep tech company that鈥檚 focused on transforming crop waste into sustainable carbon, a patented reusable LED bulb with replaceable cartridge, and a painless testing technology to detect oral cancer, were among the top six startups competing in the , following a weeklong rigorous bootcamp.

 After much deliberation, the judges announced ProtonCraft, a patent-pending electrolyzer as this year鈥檚 winner of the highly successful initiative that shapes the next generation of entrepreneurs emerging from Indian universities and Schulich鈥檚 graduate programs.

Dubbed as Together 5.0 this year, the global initiative by Schulich School in partnership with  Government of India鈥檚  and the Consulate General of India in Toronto, and the City of Toronto, brought together multinational organizations, leading entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and investors from Canada and India to mentor participating student teams.

鈥淐anada and India are natural partners. We share a commitment to pluralism and to excellence in education and innovation,鈥 said 91亚色鈥檚 President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, at the launch event, noting that she visited India last year, to explore research, entrepreneurship and education collaboration across the country. 鈥淚t's fundamental to strengthening the well-being of the communities that we serve. This shared sense of purpose binds our present and our future.鈥

Schulich听Adjunct Professor Chris Carder, the person behind this innovative initiative also spoke about his visit to India earlier, during which time he presented the idea of a startup bridge between 91亚色 and the Indian innovation economy to Schulich鈥檚 India Advisory Board members, including听 Mr. Ratan Tata.听, Carder recalled that the late Indian businessman and philanthropist expressed keen interest in seeing the initiative takeoff.

Lokesh Goswami, a past winner of the venture competition shared his experience as an engineer-turned entrepreneur. The co-founder and chief technical officer of Angirus, an innovative company that takes pride in its product, wricks, developed as an eco-friendly and sustainable technology to make waterproof bricks using 100 percent recycled waste material. He highlighted how his team made of only students who were trying their hands on entrepreneurship by participating in the pitching competition and 鈥済ot a trailer of a whole startup鈥 journey by the end of Together 2021. He also offered several tips to current participants ahead of the competition, asking them to have an open mindset and be willing to share their venture ideas with mentors for best results. 

鈥淲ith this year鈥檚 theme-based solutions, we aimed to improve people鈥檚 lives while addressing areas of national and global importance,鈥 pointed out Carder, who is also the executive director of the Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship and co-director of Entrepreneurial studies at Schulich. 鈥淚ncreasing access to the global startup ecosystem through coaching and mentorship sessions by industry leaders, plus offering these young entrepreneurs with feedback from judges during the competition were key parts of this year鈥檚 program.鈥

While the startups are founded by Indian students, Schulich MBA students are trained by Schulich Instructor Cherry Rose Tan and Carder himself, to guide Indian students on how to design commercialization strategies and express their concepts to investors.

Students from sectors including e-mobility, environment and energy, health care, income security and fintech, food and agriculture, telecommunications, textiles and education were among this year鈥檚 participants. Aside from learning to be efficient entrepreneurs, participants from both countries also had the opportunity to make new lifetime connections and perhaps collaborate in the future.

Originally published in News@91亚色

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91亚色 lauds Ratan Tata鈥檚 role in strengthening India-Canada relations through education听 /global-engagement/2024/10/10/york-university-lauds-ratan-tatas-role-in-strengthening-india-canada-relations-through-education/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:31:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=33492 By Gloria Suhasini As tributes pour in from around the world following the passing of听Ratan Tata passing, the University is lauding the global visionary鈥檚 contributions to internationalization of education.Tata has played a significant role in strengthening India-Canada relations not only through business operations in Canada, but also as a regular contributor to the higher-education sector, […]

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By Gloria Suhasini

As tributes pour in from around the world following the passing of听Ratan Tata passing, the University is lauding the global visionary鈥檚 contributions to internationalization of education.
Tata has played a significant role in strengthening India-Canada relations not only through business operations in Canada, but also as a regular contributor to the higher-education sector, maintaining ties with universities, including offering motivational lectures and master classes to business students.

Ratan Tata (left) and industrialist GM Rao, right, outside 91亚色鈥檚 Hyderabad Campus, ten years ago

Tata forged a relationship that served as a guiding force in establishing its business school in India. 鈥91亚色 community is deeply saddened by the passing of the extraordinary global icon and an esteemed friend to 91亚色,鈥 said Vinitha Gengatharan, Assistant Vice-President, Global Engagement & Partnerships at 91亚色 International, paying tribute to the legendary businessman and philanthropist.  鈥淗is tremendous support helped shape our Hyderabad Campus will be cherished.鈥 

Tata was a founding member of 91亚色鈥檚 India Advisory Council announced during opening of the University鈥檚 Hyderabad Campus in September 2014. Earlier that year, Tata was recognized with an Honorary Doctor of Laws by 91亚色.

, he said: 鈥淚 had no idea that this university and this business school 鈥 moved beyond the shores of Canada to reflect the internationality of the world we live in.鈥 He added, 鈥淛ust remember that there are millions of people who are less fortunate than you are and that hopefully of the achievement you will make in your life will be making a difference.鈥

At the ceremony, Dezso J. Horvath, then dean of the Schulich School of Business, praised Tata as one of the great architects of modern India and a global visionary in business.

Then dean of Schulich School of Business congratulating iconic global industrialist Ratan Tata upon receiving Honorary Doctor of Laws from 91亚色 in 2014

Horvath noted that Tata embodies core values taught at the business school 鈥 a global mindset, commitment to excellence and innovation, as well as a resolute belief that business can improve society.

Gengatharan also notes that Tata鈥檚 commitment to sustainability and social responsibility echoed and inspired 91亚色鈥檚 own.

Originally published in New@91亚色.

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Summer program boosts knowledge exchange, career readiness /global-engagement/2024/09/04/summer-program-boosts-knowledge-exchange-career-readiness/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:21:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=30476 This summer, 12 Chinese students completed an intensive, three-week program at 91亚色 called Jumpstart Your Future: A Career Bootcamp for Undergrads. A collaborative effort between 91亚色 U鈥檚 Asian Business & Management Program (ABMP) and the Faculty of Science, the summer program embodied the University鈥檚 commitment to a multidisciplinary educational approach. It brought together students […]

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This summer, 12 Chinese students completed an intensive, three-week program at 91亚色 called Jumpstart Your Future: A Career Bootcamp for Undergrads. A collaborative effort between 91亚色 U鈥檚 Asian Business & Management Program (ABMP) and the Faculty of Science, the summer program embodied the University鈥檚 commitment to a multidisciplinary educational approach. It brought together students from Shandong Second Medical University and Wuxi Taihu University in China, and blended medical and business insights to prepare them for their future careers.

鈥淭he boot camp was meticulously designed to build critical soft skills, enhance business knowledge, and equip participants to become competitive applicants for post-secondary education and the job market,鈥 said Elena Caprioni, ABMP program director.

Students engaged in a combination of dynamic lectures, workshops, networking opportunities and group activities with 91亚色 U students, culminating in a capstone project outlining their career roadmap. A key aspect of the program was a series of visits to prominent local institutions, including RBC, the IBM Canada Software Lab, the Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital and the 91亚色 Centre for Vision Research, among others.

鈥淭hese experiences provided invaluable real-world perspectives, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical industry insights,鈥 said Caprioni.

The program not only benefited the visiting students but also enriched the learning experiences of 91亚色 U students, allowing them to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and broaden their perspectives.

鈥淥ne of my best memories was hosting a coffee chat that brought together Chinese students with professionals in the medical fields,鈥 said 91亚色 U student Tien Thuy Hoang, a member of the Global Leaders of 91亚色 Science volunteer group. 鈥淲e had a great time exchanging ideas and exploring cultural differences, which made the whole session really special and memorable.鈥

Hugo Chen, director of international collaborations and partnerships in the Faculty of Science, witnessed the impact of the boot camp on students during their final presentations.

鈥淭he program concluded with these bright minds presenting their individual career plans, reminding us of the importance of such initiatives in shaping the leaders of tomorrow,鈥 said Chen. 鈥91亚色 Science is proud to have played a pivotal role in this transformative educational journey and looks forward to continuing this enriching collaboration, fostering growth and nurturing potential in the generations to come.鈥

The program鈥檚 success in bridging cultural and academic gaps underscores 91亚色鈥檚 commitment to fostering global knowledge exchange. Looking ahead, ABMP and the Faculty of Science will continue to provide in-person programs that enhance cross-cultural interactions, thereby enriching students鈥 cultural understanding and academic experience.

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LA&PS Bridging Program empowers international professionals /global-engagement/2024/08/14/laps-bridging-program-empowers-international-professionals/ Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:29:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=30492 91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) is gaining recognition for its Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs), designed to assist newcomers to the country in navigating the complexities of the Canadian job market. Within the Bridging Program, there are two options on offer: the Foundations Program, which includes courses created […]

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91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) is gaining recognition for its Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs), designed to assist newcomers to the country in navigating the complexities of the Canadian job market.

Within the Bridging Program, there are two options on offer: the Foundations Program, which includes courses created exclusively for IEPs, focusing on professional communication, leadership, internet technology (IT), as well as law and management skills in the Canadian context; and certificate programs focusing on either Canadian business or information technology, which allow students to gain a Canadian university credential and take courses toward professional accreditation. Both routes offer part-time and evening study options, along with flexible course selection, access to fee waivers, experiential education and career support.

Offering a comprehensive educational experience tailored specifically for IEPs seeking to enhance their career prospects in Canada, the programs benefit from financial supports from both the government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training & Skills Development, and the federal government, through Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada. Government funding goes toward supporting newcomers to access language development, career coaching and professional-level courses.

Art Noordeh is the academic director of the Bridging Program that, since its inception in 2010, has been instrumental in facilitating the career transitions of countless IEPs from diverse backgrounds and industries. 鈥淥ur aim,鈥 Noordeh says, 鈥渋s to empower individuals to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields in Canada.鈥

Over 1,400 newcomers have participated in the programs since they started, says Monica Brennan, the Bridging Program鈥檚 associate director. Currently, a new intake of over 80 students are beginning their IEP journey and adding to those numbers.

Brennan says participants have an option to continue at 91亚色 following the completion of the Foundations Program, where they can take additional university-level credit courses as visiting students in their chosen field or apply to join the certificate programs. To date, approximately 40 per cent of participants have gone this route.

Among the Foundation Program graduates is Neha Aggarwal, who completed the program in December 2023. Despite having professional experience and expertise in her native India, she faced challenges securing interviews for a data analyst position after coming to Canada. After enrolling in 91亚色鈥檚 Bridging Program for IEPs in 2023, she participated in networking seminars, technology summits, and career fairs that exposed her to industry professionals and peers with similar aspirations. She also participated in drop-in language classes on weekends.

With enhanced language and communication skills, Aggarwal secured a data analyst internship within just one month of enrolment, a testament to the program鈥檚 effectiveness in facilitating career transitions for IEPs. She has now joined the IEP Professional Certificate in Information Technology.

鈥淢y journey with the IEP program at 91亚色 has been a personal odyssey of growth and success,鈥 says Aggarwal, in a Foundations Program testimonial on the LA&PS website. 鈥淭his program has not just been a professional journey; it has been the best personal chapter since I arrived in Canada, setting the stage for continuous success and growth.鈥

The professional certificate programs in both Canadian Business and IT have a long track record of success. The recently created Big Data & Data Analytics stream has been designed to quickly transition established IT professionals into the highest-demand skills of today鈥檚 workplace. The required course work includes deep theoretical knowledge, practical skills with current software packages and immersive project work in team environments. 鈥淭hese specialized IT skills can help relaunch the careers of IEP students on a new path well-aligned with the future of the Canadian economy,鈥 says Professor Stephen Chen of the School of Information Technology at 91亚色 U.

At a ceremony last month 鈥 attended by Provost and Vice-President Academic Lisa Phillips and Interim Dean of LA&PS Michele Johnson  鈥 recognizing newcomers who have graduated from the certificate programs or achieved career success, several attendees spoke 鈥 like Aggarwal 鈥 about the impact of 91亚色鈥檚 IEP programs.

鈥淭he program provided insights into the Canadian labour market, enhancing my understanding of industry trends and employer expectations. It equipped me with job search strategies, including resum茅 writing and interview preparation, to effectively compete in the job market,鈥 said IT graduate Dawit Gulta, who is currently working toward a graduate degree in big data and data analytics at 91亚色 U and is a Mitacs graduate student intern at the Sunnybrook Research Institute.

鈥淚 learned essential knowledge and methodologies through the specialized courses in public administration. The practicum course allowed me to practise in a real public sector work setting, which led to my current job,鈥 said student Eva Yuanyuan Han at the event. She joined the Ontario Ministry of Health as a resource analyst in May, graduating with a Certificate in Canadian Business in the Public Administration stream.

The graduates鈥 words spoke not only to how the Bridging Program for IEPs benefits individuals but also how it enriches Canada鈥檚 workforce with diverse talents and perspectives.

鈥淎t 91亚色, we are dedicated to empowering IEPs with the resources required to unlock their potential to excel and fulfil their dreams in Canada,鈥 says Noordeh. 鈥淭he transformative impact of the program helps them to overcome barriers and achieve significant career growth in the job market.鈥

For more stories about graduates of the programs 鈥 including听Dawit Gulta, who won a Dean鈥檚 Award for Research Excellence during his studies 鈥 visit the听Bridging Program for IEPs website.

Originally published in YFile.

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Schulich ExecEd expands health-care training partnership in Guyana /global-engagement/2024/01/12/schulich-execed-expands-health-care-training-partnership-in-guyana/ Fri, 12 Jan 2024 16:49:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=30590 Schulich ExecEd, an extension of the Schulich School of Business at 91亚色, is building upon its existing partnership with the Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana by launching a new Guyana-Schulich ExecEd Masters Certificate in Physician Leadership Program and kicking off a second cohort of the Schulich ExecEd-Guyana Masters Certificate in Hospital Leadership […]

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, an extension of the Schulich School of Business at 91亚色, is building upon its existing partnership with the Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana by launching a new Guyana-Schulich ExecEd Masters Certificate in Physician Leadership Program and kicking off a second cohort of the Schulich ExecEd-Guyana Masters Certificate in Hospital Leadership Program. Both programs are set to begin their virtual classroom sessions this month.

Representatives from Schulich ExecEd travelled to Guyana last month to celebrate the new program launch with members of Guyana鈥檚 government. The attendees from Schulich ExecEd were: Rami Mayer, executive director; Dr. Susan Lieff, program director; Jeff MacInnis, facilitator; Robert Lynn, associate director; and Ai Hokama, program co-ordinator.

鈥淚 am excited to announce the continuation of our partnership with the Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana,鈥 said Mayer. 鈥淭ogether, we are pioneering transformative learning programs focused on social innovation that are aimed at equipping health-care leaders with essential skills crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of health care in the Guyana region.鈥

The Schulich ExecEd-Guyana Masters Certificate in Hospital Leadership Program focuses on fortifying the administrative skills of health-care workers, equipping them with the knowledge to effectively manage health-care facilities, resources and personnel. Its sister program, the Guyana-Schulich ExecEd Masters Certificate in Physician Leadership Program, is a direct response to the needs of physicians in the region. The goal is to build up physicians鈥 leadership abilities, improve their decision-making skills, and sharpen their capacity to manage health-care facilities and resources. 

鈥淭hese programs have been specifically designed to empower health-care professionals in Guyana and enhance the quality of health-care services they provide to their patients,鈥 said Frank Anthony, Guyana鈥檚 minister of health. 鈥淲e are grateful for the co-operation of the Ministry of Public Service and the Government of Guyana in delivering this training to the participants free of charge.鈥

Schulich ExecEd鈥檚 ongoing mission with this partnership is to transform Guyana鈥檚 health-care system to deliver more equitable, accessible and enhanced health care. The shared vision of these partners is to develop better health care and physician leaders in Guyana and to provide innovative health-care solutions to improve patient outcomes across the country. Program participants hail from all 10 regions of Guyana, including the country鈥檚 Indigenous communities.

鈥淥ur programs are meticulously designed to fill critical gaps in business education, addressing skill needs not traditionally covered in medical school,鈥 explained Mayer. 鈥淲e are committed to empowering physicians and health-care leaders with the tools to manage difficult conversations, solve complex problems, foster collaboration, lead effectively and elevate the overall quality of care in the country.鈥

Both programs are expected to graduate their current participants in September of this year.

For a closer look at the Schulich ExecEd team鈥檚 celebratory trip to Guyana last month, visit听.

Originally published in YFile.

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OsgoodePD introduces three new courses for internationally trained lawyers /global-engagement/2023/11/14/osgoodepd-introduces-three-new-courses-for-internationally-trained-lawyers/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:26:00 +0000 /global-engagement/?p=30616 Osgoode Professional Development鈥檚 Professional LLM in Canadian Common Law program is introducing a new stream of practice skills courses next fall. Developed by Audrey Fried, OsgoodePD鈥檚 director of faculty and curriculum development, in partnership with instructors Shelley Kierstead and Germ谩n Morales Farah, the new courses offer students the opportunity to integrate their substantive knowledge and skills from several courses in […]

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 program is introducing a new stream of practice skills courses next fall. Developed by Audrey Fried, OsgoodePD鈥檚 director of faculty and curriculum development, in partnership with instructors Shelley Kierstead and Germ谩n Morales Farah, the new courses offer students the opportunity to integrate their substantive knowledge and skills from several courses in a way that simulates the realities of Canadian legal practice.

鈥淲e are really excited about the opportunity to offer this suite of courses, which are unique in integrating substantive law and practice skills in a way that meets the needs of our Professional LLM students,鈥 said Fried. 鈥淎nd these courses are a natural fit for OsgoodePD, building on our experience with simulated clients and problem-based learning, and drawing on the expertise of Professor Paul Maharg and experienced instructors like Professor Shelley Kierstead and Germ谩n Morales.鈥

In Canadian Legal Strategy, Research and Writing (CCLW 6609), students will go beyond the basic legal research and writing skills by drawing on material from Professional Responsibility and Constitutional Law courses to develop interview, communication and strategy skills. They will learn how these skills work together with legal research and writing to serve the needs of clients. Students will deploy their newly gained knowledge in authentic tasks as they are called on to draft practice documents and write memoranda of law, opinion letters and demand letters.

In Canadian Business Transactions (CCLW 6638), students will move from a solid foundation in Canadian law related to corporate and commercial transactions into exercises involving communication, strategy, drafting and negotiation. Students will prepare practice documents, plan due diligence, conduct or review selected regulatory searches and negotiate key terms of a transaction.

The third new course, Capstone: Canadian Law in Practice (CCLW 6610), further builds on those newly acquired skills as students work in a virtual firm environment, completing both a litigation and a transactional file and engaging in structured reflection of these new skills and experiences. The course will also focus on building client relationships.

These new course offerings will help internationally trained lawyers meld practical experience from other jurisdictions with Canadian substantive law and practice techniques.

Applicants with an international law degree are encouraged to apply to the OsgoodePD Professional LLM in Canadian Common Law program by听Jan. 15, 2024. For more information about the program, the new course offerings and how to apply, visit the听.

Originally published in YFile.

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