May 29, 2026

A new study released by University of Toronto researchers Seerat Gill, Elizabeth Buckner, and Glen A Jones examines the “rise and fall” of public college-private partnerships (PCPPs) in Ontario. The authors examine the role of colleges in the province and the history of PCPPs since their creation in the early 2000s. They note that despite recent declines in domestic students, international enrolment at PCPPs grew nearly seven times from 2019 to 2023–2024, reaching approximately 57,000 enrollees. The authors conclude that low risks for both public and private partners resulted in moral hazard, and that the Government of Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities had little incentive to intervene as the partnerships reduced the need for provincial funding.

The Government of Nova Scotia has announced a new partnership with Dalhousie University to provide supports for people with disabilities in the region. Dal will host one of the province’s four disability support outreach teams and provide support for clinical education and training, while NS will provide funding and operational supports. The team will provide treatment; skill development; and coaching for families, caregivers, and support providers. “By bringing our existing clinic together with provincially funded interprofessional health services, we are expanding access to co-ordinated, person-centred care while deepening hands-on learning opportunities for students across health disciplines,” explained Dal Faculty of Health Dean Brenda Merritt.

Mohawk College and Wrexham University in the UK have signed an MOU to strengthen collaboration in the areas of academics, athletics, and international experiences. The partners will explore student exchanges, faculty collaboration, athletics, and more. “This partnership is unique for Mohawk College because it intentionally integrates academics and athletics to enrich global learning,” explained Mohawk President Paul Armstrong, adding that it will allow learners to “broaden their perspectives in ways that go far beyond the classroom.”

Simon Fraser University and the shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean have signed a strategic research partnership. Through the partnership, the two will explore opportunities for collaboration in Arctic technologies, clean maritime energy, advanced manufacturing, and advanced naval systems. This work will support workforce development and industry investment in Canada. “We see tremendous opportunity to create research advances, emerging economy jobs, and companies with value-added exports here in B.C., while also adding to Canada’s Arctic security,” said SFU AVP, Knowledge Mobilization and Innovation Elicia Maine.

The traditional degree model is ill-equipped to prepare learners for the current workforce, thanks to global workforce changes, writes Michael Frasciello. Frasciello cites an IBM projection that 40% of the global workforce will need new skills in the next three years, using this information to explain that the traditional degree model is too rigid and slow to quickly adapt to conditions. He suggests that these rapid changes are giving rise to demand for stackable and flexible credential pathways, which universities will increasingly need to provide. He cautions universities to avoid timidity in adopting flexible pathways and slow program development timelines, while also urging them to be sure to track the workforce outcomes of these new flexible offerings and to develop flexible credentialling strategies before adopting the supporting technology.

Thompson Rivers University and the City of Williams Lake have signed a Letter of Understanding (LoU) that will support access to postsecondary education in the region. The two will work together to support student success, address workforce needs, and promote regional vitality. Commitments include advancing a collaborative planning process, exploring partnership opportunities, and strengthening relationships. “Together, we are taking important steps that further strengthen access by learners in the Williams Lake region to relevant, high-quality, and sustainable postsecondary education — now and into the future,” said TRU President Dr Airini.

Memorial University has released its 2026-27 operating budget. The budget includes investments focused on strengthening academic quality, enhancing student experiences, and supporting long-term financial sustainability. There are also initiatives focused on reducing costs, such as a voluntary retirement program for staff and faculty who meet the program’s age or service criteria. Additionally, it includes reductions of 6% for administrative units and 4% for faculties and schools, with cost reduction targets to be recalibrated after conclusion of the voluntary retirement program. “Memorial University is making responsible decisions now that safeguard our ability to deliver high-quality education, research, and community impact for years to come,” said Memorial Spokesperson Michelle Osmond.

Niagara College has announced the new branding for its craft beverages. NC Craft will be used for wine, beer, spirits, and cider drinks within the college’s School of Wine, Beer and Spirits. The college announced that its Wine Visitor + Education Centre will also be renamed the Niagara College Craft Beverage Centre to reflect the college’s expanded offerings. “While our winery, brewery and distillery produce distinctly different products, they share the exact same foundation – with student learning at their very core,” explained Niagara President Sean Kennedy. Niagara is celebrating the launch with the creation of a NC Craft Beverage Flight tasting experience, as well as several events taking place over the summer.

Several colleges and universities in British Columbia are marking GoByBike week with special campaigns and offerings. Okanagan College will be hosting Community Stations where cyclists will be able to enjoy refreshments, stamp a GoByBike Week passport, and socialize. Thompson Rivers University and the University of British Columbia are both encouraging friendly competition by offering awards and prizes to teams. The University of the Fraser Valley launched an Active Transportation Hub to support students and staff who are sustainably commuting to campus. The facility offers a safe and secure facility to park bikes and scooters, as well as amenities such as showers, changerooms, and a bike repair station.

The University of Windsor has given the former Greyhound bus depot back to the City of Windsor. The university had been given the property when it took ownership of another property across the street from the depot in 2011. However, CTV News reports that the agreement was terminated in light of the land no longer being needed by the institution and the rising costs to ensure the land is maintained and secured. “Following a review of University priorities, it was determined that the property would not be required for any future initiatives,” read a statement from UWindsor. “This decision reflects the University’s commitment to fiscal discipline and directing resources toward mission-advancing priorities.”