College research activities should be better supported by the federal government, said Dr. Ben Cecil, President and Chief Executive Officer of Olds College of Agriculture and Technology. On April 16, Cecil spoke before the Federal Government’s Standing Committee on Scientific Research, asking for a re-evaluation of the distribution of federal government funding to better support college research activities.
In his speech to the Committee, Cecil emphasized the critical role colleges play in advancing research and innovation within their local communities and industries. There’s a need for equity in funding allocation since colleges have demonstrated their ability to deliver real world solutions to challenges faced by Canadians.
He said colleges are essential hubs of innovation, drive economic growth and job creation through applied research.
However, the current distribution of federal research funding does not reflect the important contributions made by colleges like Olds College.
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Cecil outlined three key areas that need reform: equity, eligibility, and impact. He called for greater flexibility in funding programs to accommodate the unique needs and capabilities of college research initiatives.
He emphasized the important of measuring research impact through metrics that matter to Canadians, job creation, affordability, and economic growth.
“Olds College stands ready to lead the charge in transforming agriculture and driving sustainable innovation,” said Cecil. “By reallocating federal researching funding to colleges and measuring impact on tangible outcomes, we can unleash the full potential of Canada’s research ecosystem and ensure a brighter future for all Canadians.”
