In light of the recent announcement pertaining to York’s partnership with Oak Valley Health, the university continues to look forward to the brand new and highly anticipated Markham Campus.
Earlier this year, York announced its creation of Canada’s first Centre International de Formation des Acteurs Locaux — or International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders (CIFAL) — in collaboration with United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). CIFAL serves as an epicenter that shares knowledge among government officials, academia, the private sector, and civil society, providing training for those affiliated all around the world.
Additional developments regarding the campus’ progress included the pouring of the foundation on April 17 earlier this year. Starting next fall, students will also be welcomed to apply for admission for the fall 2023 semester.
The Markham Campus will offer a multitude of undergrad and graduate programs pertaining to sports management, computer science, and other technologically-centred subjects. Per the campus’ website, incoming Deputy Provost Dr. Gordon Binstead echoed those opportunities noted above: “The new campus is an opportunity to further strengthen the university’s contributions to the social and economic well-being of communities in the surrounding York Region and beyond.”
York News Manager and Deputy Spokesperson Kayla Lewis echoes Dr. Binstead’s statement, going on to add that the new campus will embed the university in one of the most dynamic communities in the country.
“Reflecting the local economy, academic programs and research will revolve around the core themes of technology and entrepreneurship and how they are driving innovation across all areas of knowledge and society. Challenging the traditions of what a university campus can offer, Markham Campus will act as a unique meeting place for students to interact directly with employers, start-up companies, and community partners from across the York region,” says Lewis.
The Markham Campus will provide an overarching focus on supporting student entrepreneurs to develop the foundations for their small businesses, where they will receive guidance and mentorship as they venture into the world of potentially running their own company. Further opportunities will allow researchers to translate their work into “economically and socially viable innovations,” according to the FAQ page for the Markham Campus.
Lewis mentions that the university’s intent is to “accommodate for 4,200 students” and “promote unexpected connections by bringing people together to create positive change.”
Regarding inclusivity and diversity, Lewis acknowledges that “Markham Campus will be co-located with YSpace and the IBM Innovation Space — Markham Convergence Centre. The campus will include a multi-faith space, Indigenous learning circle, and enhanced accessibility features to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
Most recently, York hosted a virtual open house on November 15 that discussed the campus’ progress and detailed further inquiries pertaining to programming, collaboration opportunities, and more. Further questions can be directed to the campus’ official email at markham@yorku.ca.
