Accelerate 2022

How can we build a better future?

Join Universities Canada virtually from February 8-9, 2022, as we convene thought leaders, experts and changemakers from across the country to tackle the challenges facing us in our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, while also looking ahead to build a brighter future for all.

Now is the time for all sectors to work together, to get important things done and to accelerate toward a stronger economy, healthier society and a more vibrant and inclusive Canada.

Program highlights

All times are presented in Eastern Time (ET).

Opening ceremonies

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

10:15 am to 10:45 am ET

Professor Claudette Commanda will provide an opening to our conference, in recognition and respect of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and the traditional territory upon which our conference takes place. Universities Canada’s President, Paul Davidson, and Board Chair, Meric Gertler, will also provide opening remarks.

Accelerate: Preparing Canada for future health crises

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

10:45 am to 12:00 pm ET

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged us in ways we have never been challenged before. Hear from experts in vaccine development, public health policy and the media on what we got right, what we got wrong and how we can learn from this crisis to be better prepared for the future.

Accelerate: How innovation and education are changing our world

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

1:00 pm to 2:15 pm ET

The world our children will experience will look much different from the one we live in now. Hear from leaders at the forefront of innovation and technological development on how the world will change and the role that universities will play.

Accelerate: A conversation on the Coalition for a Better Future  with co-chairs Hon. Lisa Raitt and Hon. A. Anne McLellan

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

10:00 am to 10:45 am ET

The Coalition for a Better Future brings together organizations from the private, public and not-for-profit sectors who recognize the need for an ambitious economic plan to ensure a better future for all Canadians. In this session, we will hear from Co-Chairs of the Coalition on their vision for cross-sectoral collaboration in the drive to spur inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Accelerate: Canada and the race to net zero

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

10:45 am to 12:00 pm ET

The race against climate change is one of the defining issues of our time. Hear from a climate scientist and university leader on how we can beat the clock with the help of great thinkers, researchers, advocates and education.

Accelerate: Investing in Canada as a global leader

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

1:00 pm to 2:15 pm ET

To accelerate Canada’s recovery post-pandemic and remain a leader on the world stage, we’ll need to invest in people and ideas. Hear from leaders across sectors on how we can strengthen our communities, keep Canadians healthy and build the workforce of the future.

Universities Canada