Canadian universities help build a strong nation

By Ursula Leonowicz ©2018 Postmedia Network Inc. ​This article was published in the National Post on Apr 01, 2025

More than just places of learning, post-secondary institutions are driving research, innovation and economic prosperity

It’s easy to pigeonhole universities as places where young people take that final step in their education journey before entering the working world. While this role is a critical factor that benefits society in countless ways, this view also diminishes the transformative power of the research and innovation taking place that drives economic growth, sustainability and community well-being across the nation. 

From the University of Victoria to Memorial University in Newfoundland, institutions from coast to coast have found common cause in addressing regional challenges, fostering economic development and creating real-world impacts. 

When Universities Canada president and CEO Gabriel Miller looks around and takes stock of the challenges the country currently faces, he believes our post-secondary institutions hold the key to a more sovereign and prosperous future. 

“Canadian universities are really at the heart of Canadians’ ambitions and hopes for the future – good salaries, secure jobs, medical breakthroughs and solutions to our biggest problems,” he says. “That role has never been more relevant than it is right now.” 

Miller points out that by fostering cutting-edge research in technology, health, sustainability and engineering, these institutions help industries evolve, create new opportunities for employment and address pressing global challenges.  

He highlights the work being done by forging strong partnerships between academia and industry that ensure groundbreaking ideas move from theory to practice, and drive commercialization and real-world solutions.   

Meanwhile, health and well-being are also at the forefront, with universities leading medical advancements, mental health initiatives and research that improves lives.  

He makes special note of the focus many universities put on sustainability, with research tackling climate change, advancing agricultural practices and pioneering green technologies.  

“Universities are these pulsing hubs of ideas and talent, with benefits that spin off to the public, to the private sector, to the individual, to the community, and then continue to generate their own spin-off benefits,” he says. “This is really the way forward for the country.” 

While the impact of research and technology have global implications, Miller also stresses the positive outcomes these institutions create for their local communities.  

“They are anchors of many local economies. They employ thousands of people, they purchase from local businesses and draw people into the community,” he says. “Universities are right at the centre of their local economies.” 

Through innovation, collaboration and forward-thinking research, these institutions are transforming communities and shaping a more sustainable, prosperous future for Canada and the world. 

For more information about Universities Canada or any of its member universities, visit univcan.ca. 

This story was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of Universities Canada.