As part of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s quest to transform Canada into a global leader when it comes to innovation and research, the 2016 federal budget provides Canadian scientists with the assistance they need in order to expand and grow the nation’s research excellence. This is expected to aid economic growth and create job opportunities.
The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science, said during a keynote address at the Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC) summit that there are provisions in the 2016 budget to provide an extra $95 million to councils to support discovery research. This proves the government’s commitment to all fields of science, including natural sciences, health, humanities and social sciences.
Duncan also explained how the government’s investment in post-secondary research is important to maintaining Canada on the path of sustainable economy. The three grant agencies – the Social Sciences and Engineering Research Council, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research – will use the federal funding to help researchers develop new approaches and technologies to create an innovative economy.
The budget also has provisions for an additional $20 million for the two new CERCs in the fields of clean and sustainable technology. This is part of the government’s vision to make Canada a global hub of innovation known for its creativity, entrepreneurial citizens, technology and science. The government believes this will make the country more attractive to globally competitive companies.
Ted Hewitt, President of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Chair of the CERC Steering Committee, said that the government’s commitment to research in humanities and social sciences will further the nation’s innovation agenda, which depends on human creativity and technology. Hewitt pointed out that Canadian researchers help people understand the complex social, economic, cultural and individual issues that surround technology so they can embrace it and become early adopters.
Innovation and research are undoubtedly important for Canada in achieving sustained economic growth. UCW understands this and has incorporated innovation into its MBA program. UCW MBA students learn the importance of finding novel solutions to drive the success of their organizations. Using real-life cases and in-class learning, the UCW MBA program teaches students to respond strategically to business challenges and opportunities. It helps turn students into successful leaders of tomorrow who can work in diverse business environments.
