Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is launching a new educational project, in collaboration with Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and Université Ibn Khaldoun (UIK) in Tunisia.
Students at the Université Ibn Khaldoun campus in Tunisia
The Global Exchange, Local Impact: Tunisia-Canada Scholar Program allows 25 UIK students to attend KPU's Melville School of Business and Wilson School of Design for one semester.
The three-year project aims to provide international exposure and hands-on, skill-based learning with a focus on increasing access for women and marginalized groups. The goal is to prepare students to contribute to the North African country's development, including innovation, job creation and sustainability.
"This program will provide UIK students with opportunities to broaden academic horizons and gain practical experience in both global and local contexts," says Carole St. Laurent, Associate Vice President of KPU International. "It's exciting to see how this partnership will empower students to become future leaders and agents of change in Tunisia."
Funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada, the project is part of the Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 program (BCDI 2030) an eight-year, $80 million initiative delivered in collaboration with post-secondary institutions in Canada and partner countries.
Administered by Universities Canada and Colleges and Institutes Canada, BCDI 2030 aims to strengthen social and economic development in 26 developing countries by supporting inclusive, high-quality education and training opportunities.
The program's curriculum will cover a variety of subjects within KPU's programs, including the Diploma in Front-End Development for Interactive Applications from the Wilson School of Design. By equipping students with vital skills in information and communications technology, digital transformation and climate action, the program aims to bridge the skills gap in critical sectors that are essential for Tunisia's economic growth.
Upon successful completion of their courses at KPU, students will receive official transcripts, and their credits will count toward their degrees at UIK. Additionally, students will take part in NSCC's International Employability Course, co-developed by KPU and NSCC, which aims to equip students with market-driven skills in business, technology and design. The course culminates in a certification from NSCC.
The partnership marks a significant step for both Tunisia's future and KPU's global outreach. The collaboration between B.C., a predominantly English-speaking region, and Tunisia, a Francophone nation, facilitates a dynamic cultural exchange.
"This initiative is an amazing opportunity for KPU to establish its presence in international collaboration projects," says St. Laurent. "BCDI 2030 is a unique international development program that leverages higher education to strengthen social and economic development. We are looking forward to working with our esteemed partners, NSCC and UIK."
KPU International's Office of Global Engagement builds relationships with institutions and organizations around the world to create learning opportunities for students, staff and faculty.
