International Business University this week announced the launch of its Future Talent Research Institute.
The new institute is an initiative designed to study and meet the evolving demands of Ontario’s workforce and contribute to Canada’s broader economic future, according to a statement from IBU.
IBU’s Future Talent Research Institute is dedicated to understanding labour market needs and equipping future leaders with the knowledge and skills required to build an innovative economy.
“Our vision for the Future Talent Research Institute is to bridge the gap between education and industry,” explains IBU dean Artie Ng.
Ng says that the Institute’s research will focus on identifying the critical skills need in graduates and current employees to continually align with the demands of the local and national economy.
“As Ontario’s economy continues to evolve to improve productivity and technological innovation accelerates, employers are seeking adaptable, effective and skilled talent,” Ng said. “The Institute will serve as a hub for research to enhance understanding of these needs, not only in Toronto and Ontario but across Canada.”
IBU launched the Institute based on in-house research that found employers in Canada today are struggling with skills gaps and workforce wellbeing as technological and economic shifts continue to disturb career stability across the country and beyond.
Gina Jeneroux, Director of the Institute, predicts the program will be a “game-changer for higher education in Canada.”
“Our research shows that employers are not just looking for cutting-edge technical skills—they’re also seeking great talent with the skills of leadership, adaptability, collaboration and critical thinking, and the ability to solve new problems in new ways,” says Jeneroux. “The Institute will enable IBU to continually adapt its curriculum to meet these evolving needs, ensuring IBU graduates are highly employable and invaluable to their organizations.”
