Ryerson University applauds province's investment in youth skills and innovation

TORONTO, May 3, 2013 /CNW/ - By recognizing the need to invest in youth skills and innovation, the Ontario government has taken an important step in its latest budget toward revitalizing the province's economy, says Ryerson University President Sheldon Levy.

"I applaud the government for making this investment in the future prosperity of the province. The focus on innovation at post-secondary institutions is strong recognition that start-ups and entrepreneurship are more important to the economy than ever before, and that young people play a vital part," Levy said. "The government's initiative is consistent with our University's message that future prosperity for Ontario is in the start-ups and jobs to be created by our innovative young minds. By investing in youth and education the government is taking a step forward in energizing our economy and Ryerson University is ready to increase its already significant role."

The budget confirmed the restraints and tuition fee framework announced previously by the government, and which are in line with the University's 2013-14 budget.

President Levy said he was particularly pleased with the government's announcement of $20 million for on-campus accelerator centres, with funding to be distributed based on proposals submitted by institutions.

Ryerson's Digital Media Zone was named in the budget as an example of a successful accelerator. Since opening in April 2010, the Digital Media Zone (DMZ) at Ryerson has incubated 75 startups, initiated more than 125 projects, graduated 23 companies, created over 600 jobs and hosted nearly 650 tours for visitors from around the world. Demand is high for admission to the DMZ, a collaborative space for inventive individuals and teams to develop new products, companies and ventures. Other zones have been developed on campus and the University looks forward to launching more.

Ryerson University is Canada's leader in innovative, career-oriented education and a university clearly on the move. With a mission to serve societal need, and a long-standing commitment to engaging its community, Ryerson offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. Distinctly urban, culturally diverse and inclusive, the university is home to more than 38,000 students, including 2,300 master's and PhD students, nearly 2,700 faculty and staff, and more than 140,000 alumni worldwide. Research at Ryerson is on a trajectory of success and growth: externally funded research has doubled in the past four years. The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education is Canada's leading provider of university-based adult education. For more information, visit www.ryerson.ca

SOURCE: Ryerson University

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