On October 31st, NorQuest College announced that they received the Higher Ed XR Innovation Grant from Unity and Meta Immersive Learning.
The grant will be used to support NorQuest and Unity's shared goal of making training and workforce development accessible to all, by creating a framework that will make Unity's Basic Certification program accessible to Autistic learners.
Under the guidance of NorQuest's Autism CanTech!, a tailored, employment-focused program at NorQuest funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, the grant will create opportunities for Autistic learners to expand their professional and income-earning opportunities through training in Extended Reality (XR) development with Unity.
"Autism CanTech! demonstrates that when learning and opportunities to employment are made accessible, doors can be opened for those with Autism," said Carolyn Campbell, President and CEO, NorQuest College. "The Higher Ed XR Innovation Grant will help neurodiverse individuals fill industry gaps in tech, augmented reality, and virtual reality, and offer both sustainable and meaningful employment opportunities."
The Higher Ed XR Innovation Grant is intended to empower colleges and universities to support learners in expanding their professional and income-earning opportunities through training in XR development with Unity. Funding applications are open from April 25 - June 15, 2022.
About NorQuest College: NorQuest College is Edmonton's comprehensive community college serving students throughout the province with full-time, part-time, online, and face-to-face learning options. NorQuest helps learners with diverse educational backgrounds complete or further their studies through foundational programs. Our post-secondary diploma and certificate programs and continuing education options offer rewarding career paths in health, community studies, business, environment, technology, hospitality, and diversity and inclusion training. Our suite of customized and corporate training options ensures organizations and their workforces are prepared for the demands of the future. By collaborating with business, industry, government, and communities, we ensure our learners receive workforce relevant, inclusive, and transformative educational experiences.
