The McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) today (Sept 22) announced the development of a new collaborative province-wide initiative designed to reimagine non instructional days as high-impact digital learning opportunities for students, families and educators.
With a focus on digital literacy and digital programming, this program will provide engaging workshops and activities in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, e-sports, financial literacy and entrepreneurship. The initial focus of this initiative will be to provide students with diverse learning opportunities. As the focus of the program expands, the goal is for every New Brunswicker to gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the digital economy.
"New Brunswick has the talent, creativity, and determination to lead the country in digital education," said Hon. Frank McKenna, founder of the McKenna Institute. "By working together, we can give our young people the skills and confidence they need to succeed in a world defined by innovation and set the standard for how communities embrace technology and prepare for the future."
The development of this initiative is made possible through a generous $500,000 gift from an anonymous donor. This foundational support enables the program to begin reaching communities across the province, while creating opportunities for additional partners and funders to help expand and scale its impact in the years ahead.
This forward-looking initiative will help equip New Brunswickers with the skills and support needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world," said Dr. Paul J. Mazerolle, UNB's president and vice chancellor. "At UNB, we believe that digital transformation is key to building a better world, and this initiative is a powerful example of what's possible when vision meets action.
The program will be built on strong partnerships within the local learning spaces, universities, educators, industry leaders, innovation partners and community organizations. The program will be available both in-person and virtually, ensuring accessibility for all learners, with emphasis on access for learning in rural and remote areas where possible.
"We are excited that communities will serve as hubs of expertise to support all New Brunswickers in embracing digital literacy," said Heidi Ryder, President of the New Brunswick Teachers' Association. "We look forward to collaborating with partners to identify opportunities that will develop students' knowledge, skills and mindsets that will shape our collective future."
Programming will be co-developed in partnership with Anglophone, Francophone, Indigenous communities and newcomer communities, with culturally relevant learning opportunities developed alongside partners.
"Engaging students beyond the classroom is one way community partners can help students build on what they learn in school. We're pleased to see the McKenna Institute partnering with us as we work to create a brighter future for our students," said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister, Claire Johnson.
The program is currently in initial development, which will then enter a phased rollout over the coming months. A further call for expressions of interest will be announced at a later stage, offering additional partners the opportunity to engage in the program.
About The McKenna Institute
The McKenna Institute fuels economic growth and social progress by advancing the use of digital technologies in New Brunswick. The Institute collaborates to accelerate our talent pipeline, nurture ideas and enable all New Brunswick communities to thrive in a digital world.
About UNB
The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is Canada's oldest English-language university, and New Brunswick's only national comprehensive university. Founded in 1785, the multi-campus institution has a rich history as well as a dynamic focus on research, innovation, experiential learning and entrepreneurship. UNB welcomes more than 10,000 students from 100 countries to its campuses. With over 100 programs in 14 faculties, UNB helps students acquire the abilities needed to make an impact in their communities.
