Algoma U. unites with computing platform for Centre of Excellence

A new national centre of excellence at Algoma University’s Brampton campus will also benefit students at its campuses in Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins, the school says.

Algoma U., in partnership with online platform Unity, recently launched the National Centre of Excellence during a special announcement at the Alderlea in downtown Brampton.

The goal is to accelerate innovative new education, training and research opportunities.

The partnership will develop new programming opportunities for prospective students to support an anticipated exponential growth of augmented and virtual reality applications in occupational sectors across the globe.

Upskilling and reskilling are critical for any learner today thinking about being competitive in tomorrow's job market, the university said in a news release.

A recent study by professional services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers noted that by 2030, more than 23 million jobs worldwide will be using augmented and virtual reality.

By partnering with Unity, a leading platform for creating and operating interactive content, Algoma says it is upskilling local talent, closing a skills gap, and building a talent pipeline for positive economic growth.

Educational programming and spin-off research activity will further strengthen the Innovation Hub ecosystem in Brampton, while providing new synergies between the university and local school boards, community organizations and industry, the university said.

“The National Centre of Excellence and Unity’s innovative technology are just the beginning of something big,” Algoma U. president and vice-chancellor Asima Vezina said. “We know the city of Brampton has aspirations to position itself as a key player within the innovation space with its location in the middle of Canada’s Innovation Corridor, and we are committed to playing a key role in this transformation.”  

Programs facilitated by Algoma’s Professional and Continuing Education division and academic units, such as the School of Computer Science and Technology, are slated to commence as early as May 2023. 

Programming will include information technology post-graduate certificates, coding summer camps, micro-credentials in technology, and more.

Led by faculty in the School of Computer Science and Technology, the NCoE will focus on advancing research and programs in augmented reality/ virtual reality (AR/VR), and the development of related solutions in computing. 

The National Centre of Excellence will also serve Algoma’s campus communities in the Sault and Timmins.

Guided by Algoma’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, the school said, unique programming opportunities will be made available to underrepresented populations, including Indigenous and Black youth. 

“The biggest change between the workforce today and the workforce in 2030 will be the demand for advanced IT and programming skills,” said Stuart Trafford, senior manager of channel partner development at Unity.

“Through this partnership, we’re proud to equip Algoma University with the resources to better prepare learners for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Those interested in learning more about the Algoma University National Centre of Excellence, in partnership with Unity, are encouraged to contact [email protected].