Canada’s universities showcase benefits of private sector partnerships
Ottawa - Canada’s universities invite Canadians to see first-hand how higher education is helping build prosperity through innovative partnerships with the private sector and communities. Open Doors, Open Knowledge is a series of national university open houses in November, organized by the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada and its member institutions. With the theme of “Putting Ideas to work for Canadians,” this year’s Open Doors event will showcase how university and business partnerships are driving innovation and enhancing quality of life in Canada.
“Collaboration with universities helps businesses address challenges, find efficiencies and get new ideas to market faster,” says Christine Tausig Ford, vice president of AUCC. “These partnerships are making businesses more competitive, creating jobs and positioning Canada as a leader in the global knowledge economy.”
Partnerships between universities and the private sector, as well as the not-for-profit sector, provide students and new graduates with invaluable hands-on research experience. Through research projects, internships and co-ops, students can enhance their knowledge and skills while making connections with future employers.
“We need to further develop these kinds of partnerships, both in number and scale, to achieve Canada’s potential in innovation and productivity,” says Ms. Tausig Ford. “We need to invest in ways that link university researchers and students – the creative people who develop new knowledge – with businesses that turn that knowledge into new products, processes, services and technologies.”
More than 30 Open Doors, Open Knowledge events are taking place at institutions across Canada, with most scheduled during November 9-18. A full listing of events can be found at www.aucc.ca/canadian-universities/open-doors.
AUCC is the national voice of Canada’s universities, representing 95 Canadian public and not-for-profit universities.
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Media Contact:
Helen Murphy
Communications Manager
Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada
hmurphy@aucc.ca
613-563-1236 ext. 238