QSA's Week in Higher Ed (#11, 2025)

40,000 new student work placements; $240M AI investment; New apprenticeship equipment funding; CARES network for rural health; Sask. boosts post-secondary funding.

QSA's Week in Higher Ed (#11, 2025)

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning colleges, universities, campuses, research initiatives and funding, and the tri-council (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) agencies.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-16
End Date: 2025-03-22

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Canadian Government Expands Student Work Placement Program

On March 21, 2025, the Canadian government announced 40,000 additional work-integrated learning opportunities through the Student Work Placement Program. This initiative, led by Employment and Social Development Canada, aims to equip post-secondary students with crucial career skills. Approved organizations will receive funding to offer work placements and innovative learning opportunities, both in-person and virtual, helping students transition smoothly from school to employment.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

New Funding Stream Opens for Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy

On March 18, 2025, Minister Steven MacKinnon announced the opening of the Investment in the Training Equipment stream under the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy. This initiative provides funding for modern equipment to enhance apprenticeship training quality, targeting organizations managing training funds and those delivering Red Seal trades training.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca