Institutions have continued to hold events and launch new services in response to the 215 children discovered at Kamloops Residential School. The University of New Brunswick’s History department has announced that it plans to expand its pro bono research and assistance services in areas such as land claim documentation. “We see this as the least we can do, considering this really horrific ongoing colonial process,” said UNB Assistant Professor Angela Tozer. Algonquin College also held a virtual gathering called “Every Child Matters” last Thursday to honour the children who died at the residential school. The gathering included music, poetry, and two minutes and 15 seconds of silence. Beverly Jacobs, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Windsor, penned an article for The Conversation calling for further investigation into residential school sites and urging all Canadians to “care, learn, listen, respect, and unlearn the lies that have been told.” CBC (UNB) | CTV News (Algonquin) | The Conversation (ON, NB)

Algoma University and Northern College have announced that they will be expanding their partnership to launch a new dual credential program called the Computer Science joint program. The program will enable eligible students to earn a Computer Engineering Technician Diploma and a Bachelor of Computer Science degree in three years of full-time study. “This long-standing partnership is critical to the growth of post-secondary education in Northern Ontario while addressing regional labour market needs,” said AlgomaU President Asima Vezina. “The dual credential is an example of how our collaboration with Northern College continues to evolve, and I look forward to continuing to expand the options we can provide for our students and the communities in which they live and work.” AlgomaU | SooToday (ON)

13 research teams across Canada have received new funds from NSERC’s Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program to support research, development, and training projects. The projects range from artificial intelligence to energy sustainability to health informatics. “By bringing together multidisciplinary teams to offer mentoring and skills training opportunities, CREATE complements the research training that students receive,” said NSERC President Alejandro Adem. “This positions them well to succeed in their careers and make important contributions to Canadian science and engineering.” The institutions that have received grants include McMaster University, Ryerson University, Queen’s University, University of British Columbia (both Vancouver and Okanagan), the University of Alberta, the University of Saskatchewan, York University, Université Laval, Concordia University, Simon Fraser University, and Dalhousie University. NSERC | NSERC (Recipients List) (National)

Moving from academia to industry can be challenging to academics, who need to adapt their skills and experiences to a non-academic career, writes Janelle Ward. The author explains that academics should face three “hard truths” as they pursue a different career: Academia can be difficult to understand for those outside of it, advanced degrees need to be translated to show what transferrable skills academics offer, and non-academic careers commonly value experience more than a PhD. Ward also emphasizes the importance of learning industry language and translating previous experience so that it is relevant to hiring managers. “[T]he burden falls on you to do the work of closing the gap between what you were and what you want to become,” writes Ward. Times Higher Ed (Editorial)

Ryerson University’s Faculty of Communication and Design has launched a Healthcare User Experience (HUE) Lab, which will use human-centred principles to improve patient healthcare experiences. The centre has already received a grant from the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Vaccine Community Innovation Challenge for projects that will promote vaccine confidence and uptake in diverse Canadian communities. “FCAD’s launch of the Healthcare User Experience Lab will be focused on supporting healthcare practitioners by developing new ways of communicating and engaging patients,” said FCAD Dean Charles Falzon. “We are proud to be in discussion with leading health partners in Toronto and around the world to apply creative thinking and ingenuity to Canada’s health sector.” Ryerson (ON)

CBC reports that the Coalition nord-ontarienne pour une université francophone, which was formed after Laurentian University cut ties with the University of Sudbury, wants to repatriate French programming from Laurentian. Sudbury.com explains that while Laurentian is continuing to offer French programming after terminating the federation agreement and “needs the money that was being transferred to its federated partners for its own operations,” the Coalition wants this funding redirected to USudbury as it transforms into a Francophone university. “It is time to create our French-language university in Sudbury by, for and with franco-Ontarians. This is an historic event,” said USudbury board of regents chair Pierre Riopel. CBC | Sudbury (ON)

The second wave of the pandemic in India has had several significant impacts on students looking to enter higher education. India Times reports that the upheaval created by the pandemic has caused students to look overseas for college admissions in countries with access to vaccines, robust health infrastructure, and policies favouring foreign student admissions. Several education platforms told the India Times that they had seen an over 50% increase in students wanting to pursue higher education outside of the country in 2021 compared to 2020. The pandemic also forced India to cancel the Class 12 board exams, which are commonly used for applications and admissions to postsecondary education for Indian students. IIT Bombay Professor Anura explained in an article for NDTV that universities will need to turn to other information – such as estimated scores, the creation of entrance exams, or additional metrics – for applications. India Times (Subscription) | NDTV (International)

A recent article from The Star describes the challenges that students are experiencing as they search for summer jobs. The article says that though provinces are reopening, there is still a lack of jobs in the industries in which students typically work. The article notes that the situation is especially difficult for those who typically face barriers to employment, such as Indigenous students, the LGBTQ community, and recent immigrants, and that summer job programs should be expanded to help all students find work. “Not providing opportunities, not making investments in young people and in our communities will impact people’s livelihood, health, well-being and have generational effects that will create additional barriers to obtaining post-secondary education and additional barriers to entering a job market,” said Marie Dolcetti-Koros, national treasurer for the Canadian Federation of Students. The Star (National)

QS Quacquarelli Symonds has released the QS World University Rankings for 2022. The rankings evaluated 1,300 universities around the world according to metrics such as academic reputation, employer reputation, and faculty/student ratio. The top three institutions were MIT (1), the University of Oxford (2), and the University of Cambridge and Stanford University (tied for 3). 28 Canadian universities were included in the ranking with three appearing within the top 50: The University of Toronto (26), McGill University (27), and the University of British Columbia (46). Newswire | QS (Rankings) (International)

Polytechnique Montréal has signed a five-year agreement with equipment manufacturer Safran that will support several aeronautical research projects. The projects will be taken on by teams comprised of students and professors and will address topics such as eco-design, environmental impact reduction, materials and processes, and parts robustness and maintenance to contribute to the development of a carbon-neutral aircraft. “Safran researchers understand university reality and interact closely and concretely with our students and our teams,” said François Bertrand, Senior VP of PolyMTL and VP - Academic and Research. “This synergy not only leads to promising advances for the entire industry, but also permits a new generation to be trained in keeping with the current and future challenges of the aeronautical sector.” PolyMTL (QC)

The University of Ottawa has collaborated with Wesley Clover International to launch a new technology business program called Alacrity Ottawa. Alacrity Ottawa will provide graduates of UOttawa’s new Master’s in Entrepreneurial Engineering Design (MEED) with internship opportunities, mentorships, and a network of entrepreneurial expertise. The two-year program will focus on tech solutions and startups in a variety of areas, including 5G+ networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and transportation. “The Alacrity Ottawa program will build long-term synergistic relationships between entrepreneurs and investors that will have significant economic and social impact for Ottawa and Canada,” said Sylvain Charbonneau, VP, Research at UOttawa. UOttawa (ON)

Lethbridge College has announced that it has revamped its Health Care Aide program. The new changes will enable students to learn more about pressing healthcare topics, spend more time in clinical and lab experiences, and focus more on complex health issues. The curriculum now includes increased training in palliative care, dementia care, mental health, and addictions. The Health Care Aide program will provide more emphasis on professional development, information technology, and hands-on learning opportunities. The program’s length has been extended from one semester to one full year to provide additional time for students to complete the new curriculum. Lethbridge (AB)

Western University has announced that students who are living in residence at Western, Brescia, Huron, and King’s will be required to have the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination for the Fall 2021 semester. Students will be told to get vaccinated before arriving on campus, and those who are unable to access vaccination will have 14 days after moving in to become vaccinated. Western will also have an on-campus vaccination clinic to help community members get their first and second doses of the vaccine. “We want our community to be safe and healthy this fall, as we return to the on-campus experiences we all love,” said Western President Alan Shepard. “Ensuring our students in residence are vaccinated will go a long way toward making this happen.” Western | King’s (ON)

Sheridan College’s Screen Industries Research and Training Centre (SIRT) has announced that it has launched a Virtual Production Innovation Hub (VPIH). The VPIH will function as a space where industry leaders, technology partners, and students can collaborate and innovate in the field of virtual production. “The Hub supports all content creators, technology enablers and studios looking to update their workflow for virtual production and see their innovative ideas and concepts come to life in real-time,” said David Dexter, Director of SIRT. “SIRT is also committed, through partnerships like xoTO Screen Industry Pathways, to ensuring that training is inclusive of the industry’s diverse workforce.” SIRT (ON)

The University of Moncton’s Francophone nursing graduates are reporting issues registering for their licensing exams. The article says that some UMoncton students had tried to register for the licensing exams after finishing their programs, and found exam slots in New Brunswick were not available this summer. CBC also reports that the exam date has changed several times, making it difficult for students to study, and that some students are studying in English over concerns of the quality of translation on the French test. “It’s just obstacle after obstacle after obstacle,” said Marie-Ève Beaulieu, a UMoncton nursing student. “I’m at the point I’m wondering, ‘Do they really want me? Do they need me?’” The Nurses Association of New Brunswick has promised more clarity soon, and has said that two independent reviews have found the exam’s translation satisfactory. CBC (NB)

BCcampus has announced that it has launched an Open Educational Resources (OER) Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Training Series. The series is intended to support postsecondary institutions in training members in preventing and responding to sexualized violence on campus. The OER covers four focus areas: consent, response to disclosure, bystander intervention, and accountability and justice. Material is adaptable for a variety of audiences and formats, and facilitators can create a shorter version of the materials, lengthen it for more depth, or incorporate content into existing courses. Thompson Rivers University, the University of British Columbia Okanagan, and Simon Fraser University were involved in sharing training resources for evaluation and use by the project. BCcampus (BC)

A new Statistics Canada study on the COVID-19 pandemic’s gendered impacts on employment and education has shown that young women aged 17 to 24 responded to the pandemic by enrolling in postsecondary education at a higher rate than the previous year, while there was no increase for young men. The study found that this increase was only seen for Canadian-born women, while the proportion of young immigrant women attending postsecondary schools stayed the same. The study also found that employment for young women attending postsecondary schools dropped from 56% to 49%; the report says that these jobs typically would both fund studies and provide work experience for students. iPolitics | StatCan (National)

ApplyBoard has forged partnerships with ETS and Pearson Education that will simplify the verification of English language test scores. ApplyProof will enable postsecondary institutions across Canada to verify Proof of English Language Proficiency by simply clicking a button when evaluating international student documentation. It will also allow students to access and share their own test results more easily. “Interoperability is what makes ApplyProof transformative,” said Iman Hassani, Head of ApplyProof. “We are thrilled to launch Proof of Language Proficiency in partnership with ETS and with Pearson respectively. This is a giant step forward to increase trust, efficiency, and transparency in our ecosystem.” ApplyBoard (National)

Western University’s Institute for Earth and Space Exploration (Western Space) has announced that it will be receiving a five-year grant “in the multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars” from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). The grant will enable Western Space to provide support for a CSA partnership with NASA that will see a micro-rover landed on the Moon. Western Space will be involved in researching the Moon’s geology and geophysics; researching the Moon’s ice; and developing approaches for geological investigation. “A major role for us is also to train the next generation of students at Western, and at these three other universities, in key research areas such as remote sensing, analogue research, and sample analysis,” said Gordon (Oz) Osinski, interim director of Western Space. Western (ON)

Eastern colleges have announced the addition of new training programs to meet market needs. Holland College is offering a free course that will allow participants to gain their Level 1 early childhood certification, which will qualify them to be added to Prince Edward Island’s list of in-demand substitute ECEs. College of the North Atlantic is launching the Enterprise Web Development program which will teach students skills related to website development to support online delivery of products and services. New Brunswick Community College has announced that it is launching several new programs within the next academic year, including Client Services and Sales, Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Information Technology: Business and Advanced Analytics, and Skilled Trades Techniques. CBC (Holland College) | CNA | NBCC (PEI | NL | NB)

McGill University has launched the McGill Centre for Innovation in Storage and Conversion of Energy (McISCE). The research centre will investigate sustainable technological solutions to improve electrical energy storage and conversion, supporting Quebec’s 2030 Plan for a Green Economy. McISCE will bring together a network of expertise from a variety of McGill’s faculties, and plans to pursue partnerships with important energy stakeholders from across QC and Canada. “The time has long [passed] for the wide array of McGill research talent to work in a coordinated and united fashion,” explained Professor Sylvain Coulombe, Co-leader of the McISCE. “The problems we face as a society are too complex for researchers to approach individually. Combining the strength of our network will yield far better results.” McGill (QC)

A University of Saskatchewan pharmacy professor, who CBC reports is Canada’s only First Nations professor in the field, has resigned. Jaris Swidrovich, member of the Yellow Quill First Nation, alleges that he has faced racism while working at USask that “started to affect me at all levels of my health and wellbeing.” Swidrovich explained that “[i]t no longer felt right to continue my teaching and scholarly work in the areas of racism and Indigenous heath as an employee of an institution that has inadequately responded to racism.” USask provost and academic VP Arini has responded by noting that school is working to support its Indigenous staff and students. “We remain committed and ready to learn and continue to take action,” said Arini. CBC | CTV News (SK)

Concordia University’s District 3 Innovation Hub, the Quebec Scientific Entrepreneurship Program (QcSE), and V1 Studio have collaborated to create the Scientific Venture Program. The two-year postdoctoral program will support PhD candidates and recent graduates in developing deep technology companies to commercialize their research and keep them living in Montreal. Participants will receive an annual $71K package that includes a stipend, access to workspaces, coaching, workshops and programs, guidance, and an international network of investors and partners. “More ideas and technologies coming from academic research could make it beyond the lab, but often scientists lack the resources and skills to commercialize,” said Paula Wood-Adams, interim VP of research and graduate studies at Concordia. “We need to enable early career researchers to develop those skills and commercialize their research outcomes, so entrepreneurship is a viable career path.” Concordia (QC)

Brock University and MacEwan University have announced new funding for scholarships and bursaries supporting Indigenous students. Brock’s Faculty of Math and Science will be providing $110K to fund three new entrance scholarships for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students. “We are seeing increasing numbers of Indigenous students entering STEM ... programs and this funding will help them achieve their dreams,” said Robyn Bourgeois, Acting Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement. MacEwan has also announced new financial support for Indigenous students. A “major donation” will support Indigenous students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, and a $250K donation from the Rupertsland Institute will go towards the Métis Scholar Awards Endowment, which provides bursaries to up to 30 Métis students annually. Brock | MacEwan | NationTalk (ON | AB)

The University of Calgary’s Faculty of Law has announced that it will be launching the Foreign-Trained Lawyers Program, which will help foreign-trained lawyers meet the qualifications necessary for practicing in Canada. Students in the 12-month program will complete the course requirements for National Committee on Accreditation, and network with local and provincial professionals. Participants will also have opportunities to receive professional development training, articling and career placement assistance, and student support and mentorship. “We are extremely excited to launch our foreign-trained lawyers program, and to help improve access to justice in Alberta and across Canada,” said Ian Holloway, dean of the Faculty of Law. The release says that the program is the only one of its kind in southern Alberta. UCalgary (AB)

The University of Alberta has announced that it will be establishing a new research chair, the Endowed Chair in Forest Growth & Yield, through an over $4.1M endowment from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta. Robert Froese will hold the chair, which will focus on biodiversity, sustainably managing land for timber, and forest growth and yield. Froese will research how various factors affect the landscape and create models of forests to inform the forestry industry. The chair will be housed in UAlberta’s Department of Renewable Resources in its Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences (ALES). Froese will also teach undergraduate and graduate students within the faculty. UAlberta (AB)

Postsecondary institutions could use campus co-operatives to solve problems faced by staff and students, writes Michelle Stack, Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. The author explains that housing and food insecurity issues were already prominent before COVID-19, and that post-COVID-19, it may be difficult or impossible to go back to “normal.” Stack says that co-operatives are a way that students can access a more affordable education and ensure more money is invested into the education system. The author says that co-ops are also able to better weather economic downturns. “Co-ops provide a place to learn about more democratic and equitable ways of living, working and learning together — and also offer ways to re-imagine alternative business models,” writes Stack. The Conversation (Editorial)

Camosun College has announced that it has received $444K in funding from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation and Seaspan for student scholarships and new equipment. The funding, which will be provided over three years, will allow Camosun to offer additional scholarships and bursaries for women and Indigenous students in trades programs. Students can use the funds to pay tuition, as well as costs related to schooling such as food, childcare, work clothing, and equipment. $144K will go towards acquiring equipment such as marine welding booths and virtual training consoles for a new marine welding program. The investment aims to address BC’s shortage of trained tradespeople who work in a variety of areas, including the shipyards. Times Colonist (BC)

Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) has announced that it has joined the Groningen Declaration Network (GDN), an organization that supports digital credential mobility. The membership will see CICan working with other GDN signatories to cooperate internationally in a variety of areas, including fair credential recognition, student data exchange, and privacy concerns. “Given the rapid changes in the labour market, we believe it is essential to facilitate credential recognition so learners can more easily move across geographic and institutional boundaries,” said CICan President Denise Amyot. “This means more digital data portability to enable learners to access and manage their own records throughout their lifetime. We believe these principles are key to the future of a successful work force.” CICan (National)

Dawson Student Union has filed a request for an injunction against Dawson College to keep it from holding in-person exams during the COVID-19 pandemic. Global News reports that in-person exams have been scheduled for chemistry, math, and physics classes. DSU chairperson Kevin Contant-Holowatyj explained that Dawson students are concerned that they might catch COVID-19 while travelling to take the exam or while writing the exam, and are worried that this will put their families at risk. Contant-Holowatyj noted that Dawson has been “unwavering” and has not made concessions on in-person exam requirements. “After a resounding opposition to in-person exams from our students, it is clear to us that we had to move forward. … Students have a right to feel safe in their learning environment,” said Contant-Holowatyj. Montreal Gazette | Global News (QC)

Algoma University will be embarking on the construction of Mukqua Waakaa'igan, a world-class, cross-cultural centre. The facility’s Anishinaabemowin name honours the bear as a carrier of medicine, explains Algoma President Asima Vezina, and the name was given to the place through ceremony. Mukqua Waakaa'igan will provide access to culturally appropriate spaces for the local urban Indigenous population and surrounding rural communities. “The facility will be a welcoming place for Indigenous peoples to share truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation; a place for celebrating all cultures, traditions, and ceremonies promoting diversity and inclusion,” explained Mary Wabano-McKay, Algoma VP Nyaagaaniid, Anishinaabe Initiatives, Equity and Student Success. The $18M project received a combined $13M from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario, with Algoma contributing over $4.7M to the project. Algoma | CTV News | Newswire (ON)

Nipissing University has announced the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Data Science program. Students in the program will study data science from theoretical and applied perspectives, and will participate in experiential learning and research opportunities from the beginning of their degree. They will also be able to customize their degrees through taking courses from other departments. “[D]ata scientists are in great demand for their cross-disciplinary skills,” said Dr Arja Vainio-Mattila, Nipissing Provost and VP, Academic and Research. “Data scientists will play an important role in the future of our region and we are excited to be able to help address this skills gap.” Nipissing says that the program is the only one of its kind in northern Ontario. Nipissing (ON)

Cape Breton University will be creating a Mi’kmaw Chair in Healthy L’nu Communities, which will be funded by the Government of Nova Scotia through $150K annually over five years. The chair will aim to improve health outcomes of Mi’kmaw in NS through gathering and incorporating L’nu knowledge and using community-based health research and practice models. The chair also will be involved in improving long-term health outcomes of Mi’kmaw, reducing inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, and supporting Mi’kmaw leadership in the area of health and wellness. “The new Chair in Healthy L’nu Communities will bring an important perspective and help us as we collaborate to improve health outcomes for the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia,” said Chief Norman Bernard of Wagmatcook First Nation. NationTalk (NS)

The University of Victoria has received over $1.4M in funding from the Government of British Columbia for the development of a new childcare centre at the university’s Queenswood Campus. UVic will be repurposing the Queenswood Retreat Centre to provide 37 childcare spaces for children of various ages, including infants, toddlers, and children ages three to kindergarten. “In our programs, children and educators co-create lively, inclusive spaces, embracing our collective responsibilities in fostering ethical relations with others,” said UVic Child Care Services director Kim Ainsworth. “With the funding, we look forward to welcoming more children and families into our centres, as we strive to create more liveable worlds while facing 21st-century challenges.” UVic | (BC)

Doing antiracist work through online education can be particularly difficult because it can expose academics to threats they would not usually face within the physical classroom, writes Mark James. The author describes how when teaching online classes, instructors can never be certain of who is listening in or watching their lectures; some audience members hold power, and their complaints can threaten instructors who are teaching using antiracist pedagogy. James calls for postsecondary institutions to embrace an antiracist stance. “Most colleges and universities are committed to multicultural interpretations of social justice, as long as it also serves the professional interests of white faculty and students,” writes James. “But it remains to be seen if this commitment will extend to an active antiracism.” Inside Higher Ed (Editorial)

Le Journal de Montréal reports that Polytechnique Montreal researcher Christopher Pal decided to refuse a $4M research chair funded partly by Huawei amid the controversies surrounding the company, leading the polytechnic and Huawei to cancel the creation of the chair position in 2019. The cancellation was reportedly made at the “eleventh hour,” as the partners had been planning to set a date to announce the creation of the chair. Pal explains that he stepped away due to ethical concerns, and that an article in the Globe and Mail about the Canadian Security Intelligence Service advising institutions to be cautious in partnerships with Huawei was the last straw. The researcher told Le Journal that it was the right decision to make, but that he refuses to criticize other researchers who collaborate with Huawei. Le Journal reports that the ties between the polytechnic and Huawei have continued to develop in recent years. Journal de Montréal (QC)

Concordia University has partnered with the Jean Paul Riopelle Foundation to start a digital oral archive project through a collaborative agreement with the Centre for Oral History and Digital Storytelling. The project will focus on creating an archive that will deepen understanding of artist Jean Paul Riopelle by gathering stories from those who knew or were inspired by Riopelle and providing these to the public. The project will be led by Lea Kabiljo, a doctoral student at Concordia’s Department of Art Education. “This oral archive promises to take us beyond the images, photos and works of Riopelle to discover the artist behind the art,” said Manon Gauthier, executive director of the Jean Paul Riopelle Foundation. Concordia (QC)

Postsecondary institutions should avoid getting stuck in a rut when planning the move back to “normal” post-pandemic, writes Kimberlee Josephson. The author explains that institutions should be innovative and business-minded when considering how to keep enrolment numbers strong. Josephson discusses four areas in which institutions can adopt an innovative business mindset: product innovation, process innovation, marketing innovation, and organizational innovation. The author suggests focusing on program offerings that set an institution apart from others, offering a wide variety of options for accessing program offerings, enacting change through marketing innovation, and getting students involved within the organization to boost connections. “[I]f institutions want to inspire future generations to go further and challenge existing norms, they must do the same,” writes Josephson. University Business (Editorial)

Dawson College, John Abbott College, and Vanier College have released a joint statement responding to Bill 96. The colleges state that a variety of aspects of the bill need to be clarified, such as the French exit exam and the application of enrolment caps. They also argue that Bill 96 will not address students’ desire to attend English cégeps or the interest parents have in supporting their children in becoming bilingual, and that the bill may force students to study outside of QC. “As institutions of higher education, we believe in the principle of freedom of choice, which provides young adults with the opportunity to shape their own future, as well as admissions based primarily on academic qualifications,” reads the release. Dawson (QC)

The Government of Ontario has announced that it will be providing postsecondary institutions with support for almost 400 projects as a part of its $70M Virtual Learning Strategy. The projects focus on partnerships that aim to transform virtual learning in key priority areas such as creating or adapting digital content, ensuring faculty and students are able to teach and learn online, identifying technologies that support online learning, and providing Indigenous institutions with support. “Our Virtual Learning Strategy is aimed at creating a platform that will allow all postsecondary institutions to compete in the new and necessary environment of learning from home,” said Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “These projects will help ensure institutions and their faculty have the tools they need to create great curriculum online and that students can access education where and when they need it.” ON (ON)

The Université de l’Ontario français, Assiniboine Community College, and Capilano University announced new program offerings. UOF will be offering a University Microcertificate in Education – Introduction to Pedagogy for professionals working in French-language schools. The institution has also divided four specialized bachelor’s degrees into shorter programs, including university certificates and microcertificates, to promote continuing education. ACC has partnered with Carson Dunlop to offer students an online Home Inspection program, which will be offered flexibly through a personalized training portal. CapilanoU will be offering new minors in Business and Communication Studies to students enrolled in four-year bachelor degree programs, which will allow them to customize their programs of study. CapilanoU | NewsWire | ACC (National)

The Government of Quebec has tabled Bill 96, legislation that would cap the number of students attending English cegeps at 17.5% of QC’s student population. The bill would see Anglophone students prioritized at English cegeps, and would also place a cap on the amount that enrolment in English cegeps can increase. Students in English cegeps would also be required to pass a French-language test in order to graduate. Students have reacted to the proposal by saying they want the option to choose what language they study in. “We won’t lose French just because we go to an English school,” explained Karlanne Dusablon, who plans to study English literature next year at a cegep. “At home, I speak French. My parents speak French. They don't speak English.” CBC | Montreal Gazette | CTV News (QC)

Brescia University College has announced that it has created the Brescia University College Centre for Women and Leadership, which will be led by the inaugural Distinguished Chair Dr Marlene Janzen Le Ber. The centre will be a hub of scholarship and advancement of women. It will be responsible initiatives such as the creation of new leadership courses and programs, embedding leadership in Brescia’s core curriculum, and forging partnerships. “The creation of Brescia’s Centre for Women and Leadership supports the growing need for a greater diversity of leaders - leaders with the strength of character to balance taking care and taking charge,” said Janzen Le Ber. “I am thrilled with the opportunity to use my scholarship and previous executive leadership experience to facilitate the fulfillment of the Centre’s unique mission.” Brescia (ON)

Those who are responsible for hiring for academic positions should be taught how to interpret their applicants’ cover letters, writes David D Perlmutter. The author offers a variety of questions hiring committees should consider while reading cover letters. Perlmutter encourages members of the search committee to ask if they are reading each cover letter efficiently and consistently, if the letter is tailored to the position, if it shows that the candidate would be a good fit for the position, and if it shows the candidate is likely to feel committed to the campus location and culture. “[W]e should be looking in a systematic fashion for the signs and portents that point to a successful match,” writes Perlmuter. Chronicle of Higher Ed (Subscription Required) | (Editorial)

The University of Lethbridge’s Dhillon School of Business has introduced a cohort concept for students starting in the Fall 2021 semester called the DSB Edge. First-year management studies students will be placed within a student community when they start their first year, register in courses together, and live in the same residences. They will also have access to the DSB Edge student orientation, leadership development, and networking events. “The first year of University is very exciting and can also be a bit overwhelming for students,” said Dr Kelly Williams-Whitt, associate dean for the Dhillon School of Business. “With DSB Edge we want to create an environment where students feel supported and as though they’re part of a team from the very beginning.” ULethbridge (AB)

The University of Alberta is reportedly considering a new contract proposal that would include a 3% retroactive wage decrease for non-academic staff due to provincial budget cuts. The Globe and Mail says that staff would be required to repay “overpayments,” see reduced benefits, and have their wages frozen except for step-based performance increments. UAlberta is also reportedly proposing to reduce tenured faculty benefits by 15%, and reduce the wages of instructors with top salaries by 15%. UAlberta has started the bargaining process, but contracts have not yet been agreed upon. “Taking money from out of the pockets of hard-working people is just absolutely devastating at a time like this,” said Jay Runham, a web designer at UAlberta. Edmonton Journal | The Globe and Mail (AB)

The University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science has received UWaterloo’s approval to create the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI). The WEI will be housed in a state-of-the-art 67,000 sq. ft. centre and will reportedly be the Waterloo region’s largest eye and vision care centre. The Centre will provide a variety of eye and vision care for residents, including surgery, wellness, and rehabilitation, and will have an ambulatory surgical centre to meet needs for cataract surgery and a tele-optometry centre to meet the needs of remote and underserved communities. The school has launched a fundraising campaign to support the initiative and anticipates that constructoin will begin in Spring 2022. UWaterloo (ON)

A partnership between four community colleges – Mohawk College, Red River College, Nova Scotia Community College, and Vancouver Community College – is bringing workforce training in goods movement and the supply chain sector to students across the country. The new program is an expansion of the training model used by Mohawk’s City School initiative, which combines industry-driven training, individualized support, and practical work experience. Over 200 people will receive training through the Material Handling 4.0 pilot program, which includes industry-specific instruction, a two-week paid work placement, wrap-around supports such as childcare and PPE, and referrals to support services. The Star | InSauga (National)

Postsecondary institutions must be careful to avoid being taken advantage of when engaging in collaborative and financial relationships with authoritarian regimes, write Mick Zais and Reed Rubinstein for Inside Higher Ed. Zais and Rubinstein discuss the impact that funding from authoritarian regimes can have on institutions, including causing institutions to inadvertently facilitate atrocities through the provision of intellectual property or regimes “buying” technological breakthroughs without proper public disclosure. The authors say that postsecondary institutions should prioritize five principles: safety, freedom, security, transparency, and reciprocity. The authors write that “we should pause and question what the relationship is for” if it does not meet these five principles. Inside Higher Ed (International)

The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO) has released a report called Making Sense of Microcredentials. The report defines microcredentials as “a representation of learning, awarded for completion of a short program that is focused on a discrete set of competencies (i.e., skills, knowledge, attributes), and is sometimes related to other credentials.” It also provides insight into the value that microcredentials hold for the postsecondary sector, for employers, and for students. The report recommends that the Government of Ontario “work towards establishing a common framework for microcredentials” with clearly communicated quality markers, and encourages institutions to innovate and experiment with programs that focus on competence rather than time spent. HEQCO (ON)

Assiniboine Community College has announced that it will be offering three new office programs at its Parkland campus in Office Management, Office Skills, and Medical Administration. Office Management is a two-year diploma program that teaches students skills relating to software, bookkeeping, human resources, and communication. Office Skills takes eight months to complete, and trains students in a variety of skills, including those related to computers, accounting, mathematics and communications. Medical Administration takes two years to complete, and students will learn advanced administration, medical vocabulary, and legal issues in the health care field. “These new programs enable students to gain the skills required to fill in-demand jobs across extremely diverse businesses,” said Gabe Mercier, Director of Parkland Campus at Assiniboine. ACC (MB)

Mohawk College has announced that it is launching a Bachelor of Digital Health (Honours) degree. The degree takes four years to complete, and covers areas such as computer science, health, and business studies. The program will prepare students with the skills and experience necessary to design and develop IT healthcare solutions. “As digital and sensor technology expands, the number of healthcare applications will continue to increase,” said David Santi, Mohawk Dean of Engineering Technology. “Remote digital monitoring will provide medical professionals with faster, better information to improve the patient experience.” Mohawk (ON)

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has announced the launch of a new, national cyber security network – the Cyber Security Innovation Network – to support the growth of Canada’s cyber security ecosystem through industry-academia collaboration. The network is intended to bolster the cyber security sector in Canada and cement Canadians’ trust in the digital economy. “Strong cyber security expertise and innovations are key to protecting Canada’s data and intellectual property and to maintaining the competitiveness of Canada’s businesses,” said Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne. “Today’s announcement builds on the Digital Charter’s commitment to safeguard Canadians’ digital privacy and security.” The program has received an investment of $80M over four years. Canada | ISED (Network Description) (National)

CBC reports that Annette Bouzi, president of the Algonquin College faculty union, has launched a formal complaint against the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) with the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, alleging that her right to be free from discrimination and harassment has been violated. While a previous OPSEU investigation ruled in Bouzi’s favour and included recommendations, CBC states that, a year later, little had changed. Bouzi alleges that she was discriminated against and harassed, that her mail was opened and resealed, that a surveillance camera had been installed in the union office, and that “disparaging, sarcastic, mocking, dehumanizing, racist and violent” emails were being sent out about her. “There was this very intentional and deceitful approach to the leadership transition, and I think it is so insidious,” said Algonquin union officer Judy Puritt, who also experienced push back. CBC | CBC (Video) (ON)

British Columbia Institute of Technology will be receiving $1.7M in funding from the Government of Canada, and additional funding to bring the total to $4.1M from BCIT, FLO | AddÉnergie, the City of New Westminster, IBX Data Systems, and Sun Country Highway to invest in electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Funding will support BCIT in expanding the EV Charging Network Management System, which was previously developed by a BCIT team, and to create solutions that will improve interoperability issues, grid efficiencies, and charging experience. “This investment from the Government of Canada for the Smart Microgrid project will help continue the research to find EV infrastructure solutions,” said Dr Kim Dotto, Dean Applied Research and Centre for Applied Research and Innovation. Canada | BCIT (BC)

Brandon University has announced the launch of the Teaching House, a program that will focus on creating space to share Indigenous knowledge. Teaching House is a gathering place that will put on events approximately once a month featuring a variety of different topics and teachings. “The Teaching House is the vision for a gathering place for the sharing of knowledge and teachings for all nations – created for connection, relationship and community,” said Cree Knowledge Keeper Susie McPherson-Derendy. “Initial events and conversations are a starting place that will help shape the Teaching House vision – inviting, including and involving many voices.” The aim is to build the Teaching House’s programs into monthly events that allow people to engage in learning, sharing, and relationship building. BrandonU (MB)

The All Hands on Deck report, which examines the state of higher education in Newfoundland and Labrador’s, has offered 84 recommendations for the province’s postsecondary institution network, including lifting NL’s years long tuition freeze. The report calls for a new tuition model that gives postsecondary institutions more autonomy. “We’ve got the lowest tuition in the country. How long is that sustainable?” asked NL’s Education Minister Tom Osborne. “The amount to freeze tuition keeps growing.” NL students have concerns about the suggestion, and Kat McLaughlin, director of advocacy with Memorial University's student union, explained that the current tuition draws students from across the world to MUN. The Canadian Federation of Students Newfoundland and Labrador noted that a tuition increase would make student debt increase rapidly. CBC (1) | CBC (2) (NL)

Mount Royal University has received a donation of $15M to transform empty and old spaces within MRU’s main building into spaces that will enrich student experiences. The gift, which is from the Taylor Family Foundation and is added to the Government of Alberta’s $50M in capital funding, will see MRU’s former conservatory converted into four multi-functional classrooms. The former library space will be converted into a student services hub, which will focus on innovation, inclusion, and experiential learning programs. “This donation will enhance the student experience by supporting much-needed classroom and gathering spaces, as well as the supports and services provided on campus,” said Spirit River Striped Wolf, president of the Students’ Association of MRU. MRU | Calgary Herald | CTV News (AB)

Cegep teachers who are part of the Fédération nationale des enseignantes et des enseignants du Québec (FNEEQ-CSN) have announced that they will be going on strike for two days in May. Teachers from 40 cegeps will hold strikes to protest the deadlock in negotiations with the government on their collective agreement, which expired a year ago. FNEEQ-CSN is protesting that continuing education lecturers receive lower pay than regular teachers, and are requesting that resources be supplied in certain disciplines, and for increased support for students with disabilities. Journal de Montréal (QC)

A report released by the Maritimes Provinces Higher Education Commission shows that there has been a rise in unemployment for those who recently graduated from Maritimes universities. The report indicated that 14% of Maritimes university bachelor graduates in 2018 were unemployed between September and December 2020, while only 8% of the class of 2012 and 9% of the class of 2014 were unemployed after two years. CBC reports that 50% of the class of 2018 had had their employment affected. “Maritimers are experiencing significant challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent university graduates are no exception,” said commission CEO Catherine Stewart in a news release. “The increase in the class of 2018 unemployment rate compared to previous graduating classes can be tied to the pandemic.” The Star | CBC (National)

Bow Valley College has introduced two new programs that follow the Competency-Based Education (CBE) model, which assesses incoming students for previously learned skills and creates a learning pathway based on the gaps in their education. The new programs that will launch January 2022 include a Cloud Computing Post-Diploma Certificate and a redeveloped Data Management Analytics Post-Diploma Certificate. “We are hearing a lot about Calgary’s new economy and a need to reskill and upskill successful, experienced workers who have been laid off, or those who are looking to fill gaps in their knowledge,” said BVC President Dr Misheck Mwaba. “Bow Valley College believes Competency-Based Education is an efficient solution that recognizes hard-earned work experience while helping people expand their skills to position themselves as stand-out candidates in our ever-expanding digital world.” BVC  (AB)

The University of Sudbury is working on a plan that will transform it into a French-language university that will be located on the Laurentian University campus. USudbury’s Board of Regents has assembled a committee that will oversee the creation of a business plan to be submitted to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities of Ontario. The plan will see USudbury become an institution that is governed by and for Ontario Francophones, and The Star says that Regroupement des professeurs(es) francophones de l’Université Laurentienne (RPF) has released a statement encouraging the support of the move. “It is by all pushing in the same direction that we will achieve this long-standing dream of Franco-Ontarians in the North and their Francophile and New Canadian allies,” the RPF’s Gina Comeau. The Sudbury Star | The Star (ON)

The Canadian Association of University Teachers has voted to censure the University of Toronto over the hiring controversy associated with Dr Valentina Azarova. Though an external review did not find that there was external influence in the U of T’s decision to rescind the offer of employment, CAUT’s Council delegates concluded that the decision was politically motivated. “In a close examination of the facts of the case, CAUT Council found it implausible to conclude that the donor’s call did not trigger the subsequent actions resulting in the sudden termination of the hiring process,” said CAUT Executive Director David Robinson. The Star says that U of T president Meric Gertler disagreed with the decision, noting that Supreme Court justice Thomas Cromwell “was the only person who had access to the full base of information.” CAUT | The Star (ON)

Students from the University of Calgary are working on an Open Educational Resources (OER) project after what CBC calls “years of inaction from the provincial government.” An investment of $500K from UCalgary’s new Open Education Resource Fund will support the creation of up to 50 OER resources over the next five years. The projects will both save money for students and provide employment to students who are hired to help. “It’s a home run in so many different areas,” said Chaten Jessel, one of the students behind the initiative. “I really think that it's going to make such a huge difference for students all across our campus.” CBC (AB)

Saskatchewan Polytechnic and CTS Tek will be launching two courses to qualify students to pilot Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). The Basic RPAS course is offered online, and allows students to flexibly complete their training and preparation for the Basic RPAS Pilot certification exam. The Basic RPAS course covers a variety of topics, including air law, RPAS airframe design, and meteorology. The Advanced RPAS Pilot certification is delivered asynchronously online, and is designed for those flying RPAS over people or in controlled airspace. Students learn skills related to communicating with Air Traffic Control and complying with clearances and instructions. Students in the courses will be prepared to gain Basic or Advanced RPAS Pilot certification from Transport Canada. Sask Polytech (SK)

ILAC Education Group and Air Canada have signed an agreement that will support international students in travelling to Canada for postsecondary education through reducing travel costs. Through the partnership, students who are registered with one of ILAC’s 80 college or university partners will be eligible for a 15% discount on Air Canada’s international flights. “Since the pandemic began we have had over 10,000 students enrolled at ILAC KISS, our virtual school,” says Jonathan Kolber, CEO of ILAC. “Many of them are in the ILAC pathway program and are planning to start their higher education in the coming months. We are pleased to work with Air Canada to further support international students in achieving their dreams of studying at top universities and colleges in Canada.” ILAC (National)

CBC reports that Ravensberg college students have alleged that the college failed to deliver its law enforcement curriculum and then failed some students out of the program. The article states that former a Ravensberg student said the college only provided a small gym with little guidance, did not deliver most of its nine certifications, and had students find their own unpaid work to complete “on-the-job training.” Arnold was failed out of the program after experiencing a health issue and failing two exams. Another student said that students were not given significant hands-on training opportunities and that certifications were delayed. This student was late to an exam due to a COVID-19 checkpoint, and was not allowed to write his final exam, resulting in him being failed out of the program. Ravensberg has said that these accusations are “without merit.” CBC ()

Canada has announced a new pathway to permanent residency for international graduates and workers from eligible educational or employment backgrounds. International graduates who have completed an eligible Canadian postsecondary program within the last four years will be able to apply for permanent status between approximately May and November 2021. “We’re creating a pathway for newcomers that will strengthen their job security, expand their career horizons and encourage them to put down deeper roots in our communities where they are giving back,” said Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino. Winnipeg Free Press | CBC (National)

The University of Calgary has received $2M to support the Haskayne Capital Expansion Project as well as the construction of Mathison Hall through Viewpoint Foundation. Mathison Hall’s round room, which is designed to bring people together, will be named the Viewpoint Circle for Dialogue in recognition of the gift. The room will promote diversity, inclusion, and equality, and will be appropriate for a variety of uses, including Indigenous smudging ceremonies. “Business needs diverse voices around the table in order to have robust and healthy discussions, and the Viewpoint Circle for Dialogue will be an integral part of Mathison Hall for our students and for the business community,” said Haskayne Dean Jim Dewald. UCalgary (AB)

University leaders must take strategic steps to “future proof” their institutions, write Loren Falkenberg, University of Calgary Senior Associate Dean, Business, and M Elizabeth Cannon, UCalgary President Emerita. The article explains that private companies now offer micro-credentials that train students faster and at a lower cost than university programs; in order to remain competitive, postsecondary institutions must revise their programs and restructure to reduce costs. The authors explain that having a strategy with transparent criteria can help faculty members gain an understanding of the disruptions. “A strategy provides a line-of-sight between the desired future state, the development or cancellation of programs, attracting and allocating funds and how the university will measure the impact of decisions,” write the authors. The Conversation (International)

Institutions across Canada will receive additional support from Bell Let’s Talk in implementing the new National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students. Bell Let’s Talk has increased its original funding from $2.5M to over $3M to provide grants to over 123 colleges and universities. The funds will be used to accelerate and enhance the work being done to improve student mental health as part of this standard. “Our partnership, together with Bell’s support, will identify the programs that best help students succeed, work to make real improvements in mental health and wellness across all our campuses, and then share our work as a roadmap for success,” said Sheridan College President Dr Janet Morrison. NewsWire | (National)

Statistics Canada has released the final data from the Full-Time Teaching Staff – University and College Academic Staff System (FT-UCASS) study. The FT-UCASS includes data related to academic rank, salary and administrative stipends, responsibilities, and previous employment. In a review of the data, authors André Lebel and Teresa Omiecinski have also released an infographic reviewing gender parity and the salary gap among university academics and changes to these over the last 40 years. The infographic reveals that the share of female academics has increased at all ranks and that the ratio of women’s to men’s median salaries has narrowed over the last 40 years for full and associate professors. StatCan | StatCan (Infographic) (National)

Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus, College of the North Atlantic, and Natural Resources Canada have collaborated to develop the Master of Science (Applied Geomatics) program. The degree will provide students with comprehensive theoretical and applied instruction in areas such as geographic information systems, geovisualization, remote sensing, programming, and project management. “The program will offer students the opportunity to become geospatial specialists while applying their expertise to a research project, developing the high-level expertise across all geospatial techniques at the outset followed by the opportunity to apply expertise to a master’s thesis project,” said Dr Robert Scott of Grenfell’s School of Science and the Environment. CNA (NFLD)

Durham College has launched the Ultrasonic Testing Level II micro-credential to meet industry demands. The micro-credential is offered through Durham’s School of Science & Engineering Technology (SET), and will train students through hands-on labs and case studies. Students are prepared with the skills and knowledge they need to pass the Level II Ultrasonic Testing certification exam. “It is important to teach students methods that industry demands they know,” said Michelle Hutt, executive dean, SET. “Within the NDE field, employers will not consider job applicants without non-destructive testing (NDT) certification from the Canadian General Standards Board.” Durham says it is the only college in Ontario to offer this certification in the field. Durham (ON)

Athabasca University’s PowerED has partnered with CPHR Alberta to extend its offerings of micro-credentials to CPHR Alberta members. The extension will allow members to access PowerED’s on-demand micro-offerings and certificates at a preferred rate through the CPHR member platform. Members can complete continuing professional development hours through PowerED’s offerings. “The PowerED™ micro-credentials being offered to CPHR Alberta members have been selected and tailored to fit their unique HR needs and skills,” said Jessica Scott, Director of PowerED. “The environment has been specifically branded and designed for CPHR Alberta members, and we are excited for them to get enrolled and upskill their credentials with our in-demand, on-demand offerings.” AU (AB)

The governments of Quebec, Ontario, and Nova Scotia have released 2021 budgets that include funding and initiatives related to postsecondary education. Quebec will be investing $369M to increase the number of postsecondary graduates, and $154M on two initiatives that will alleviate student financial burden. ON has announced a temporary tax credit for people paying for education. The Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) has criticized ON’s budget, noting that the budget lacks “targeted investments to adequately support post-secondary students.” Students Nova Scotia (Students NS) has also expressed concern for the NS 2021-2022 budget, noting that NS economic recovery relies heavily on investment in accessibility for students. QC | CBC | National Post | OUSA | Students NS (QC | ON | NS)