CityStudio Abbotsford was launched as a partnership program between the City of Abbotsford and the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) and will challenge university students to tackle civic issues and provide prototype solutions, announced Mayor Henry Braun.
CityStudio will support the launch of experimental projects as part of an immersive and innovative education experience where students and faculty will connect with City of Abbotsford staff to research, design, and implement projects through which they develop job skills, experience group processes, and network with sector experts.
Abbotsford is one of nine cities around the world to implement CityStudio. The program started in Vancouver in 2011 as a collaboration between the City of Vancouver and the City's public post-secondary institutions with the aim of shifting education towards providing practical learning experiences. These hands-on projects help students build experience, acquire skills, and solve challenges in the community. CityStudio connects City staff, students, and faculty with the community in the creation of experimental projects. CityStudio Abbotsford is one of 7 programs under the City of Abbotsford's Innovation Initiative.
Quotes:
"The City of Abbotsford is excited to partner with UFV on this innovative program that allows students to have a more interdisciplinary experience as they gain skills in problem solving. I'm looking forward to seeing the new ideas they come up with as they work with City staff to solve tangible challenges, and develop solutions to benefit our community."
Henry Braun
Mayor, City of Abbotsford
"UFV is very pleased to partner with the City of Abbotsford in a project which offers hands-on learning opportunities to students, additional problem solving capacity, and innovative solutions for the community. This is a collaboration offering lasting benefits to all involved."
Eric Davis,
Provost, and Vice President, Academic