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Durham College AI Hub partners with eCampusOntario to deliver free learning modules across Canada

Durham College (DC) is partnering with eCampusOntario on a new national initiative to make foundational artificial intelligence skills more accessible to Canadians. Through this partnership, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fundamentals micro‑credential series – a free, bilingual, and fully accessible program will be available to equip Canadians with foundational AI skills for today’s evolving workforce.

As employers increasingly seek workers with digital fluency and AI literacy, many Canadians also need flexible, barrier‑free ways to build new skills while balancing work or navigating career transitions. This initiative responds to that need by making accessible AI learning available to anyone, anywhere.

The seven-module, web-based series was designed and developed by DC’s AI Hub, one of five research hubs of excellence and a leader in AI navigation and adoption. The program covers foundational topics like AI types, safe and responsible uses, data management, and practical tools specifically with non-technical learners in mind.

“As a future-focused institution committed to supporting lifelong learning, Durham College is proud to leverage our AI Hub’s expertise to transform innovative research into accessible AI courses with meaningful impact,” says Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “By partnering with eCampusOntario, we are able to share these courses with learners across the country, helping to build confidence in AI literacy and gain the skills in this emerging technology demanded by an evolving workforce.”

Each module takes 20 to 30 minutes and includes interactive examples, self-assessments, and alignment to labour-market frameworks. Aligned with accessibility standards, Canadians can access modules immediately through Skills for Jobs Canada and the Micro‑Credentials Portal, earning digital credentials and badges to recognize their achievement.

“People need practical ways to build confidence with AI without cost or complexity,” adds Robert Luke, CEO, eCampusOntario. “By working with Durham College, we are making foundational AI learning easy to start and accessible to everyone. This partnership is part of our broader commitment to remove barriers and help learners across Ontario and Canada build the skills they need for work now and in the future.”

Through this industry-informed approach, DC and eCampusOntario are helping Canadians gain confidence in AI, adapt to a rapidly changing workforce, and prepare for the future.

Visit the Skills for Jobs Canada and the Micro‑Credentials Portal to explore the AI Fundamentals micro‑credential series and start your AI journey today.

DC welcomes winter semester with energy and excitement on campus

This winter, more than 2,000 new students are beginning their Durham College (DC) journey in programs that start in January to prepare for careers in a wide range of industries, including business, IT, skilled trades, science and technology, and more.

Together, with thousands of returning students, they have the opportunity to participate in a variety of orientation and academic events, to help them get settled, make connections and feel confident navigating college life.

“Our winter welcome is about more than just orientation — it’s about creating a sense of belonging from day one,” says Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. “Whether students are new to DC or returning to continue their studies, we want them to feel supported, engaged, and excited about the opportunities ahead.”

For students who are new to the country, connecting with the campus community is especially important. To support their transition to Canada, the International Education Office and Durham College Student Association are hosting a variety of activities, including a campus scavenger hunt, winter wellness workshop, and student-led networking event, to help international students feel at home at DC.

Johannes Ochensthaler, an international student from Munich, Germany, is starting the Marketing – Business Administration program this semester and looks forward to experiencing Canadian culture and adjusting to all the snow he has seen so far.

This intake also offers a number of future-focused programs designed specifically to meet the needs of in-demand industries, including:

With a focus on practical learning and real-world experience, these programs help students gain the necessary skills for rewarding careers in today’s rapidly evolving workforce.

It’s not too late to be a DC student and start classes in January – space remains available in select programs, offering flexible pathways to begin or continue post-secondary studies. We are here to help you get started. View a full list of programs online and learn more about how to become a student in a day.

Durham College to expand skilled training with support from $75 million provincial investment

Durham College (DC) will play a central role in strengthening Ontario’s construction workforce, thanks to a $75 million provincial investment in post-secondary institutions. Announced at DC’s Whitby campus in August, the funding will expand construction and planning programs across Ontario – including those offered at DC – opening more doors for students to pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades and urban planning.

This support means new opportunities to grow enrolment in programs that directly address the province’s housing and infrastructure needs. By 2028, the initiative will add 7,500 new seats in construction programs and 300 spaces for urban planning graduate students across various colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes.

The Honourable Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security, and the Honourable David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, made the announcement at DC’s Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology. They were joined by MPPs and Parliamentary Assistants Lorne Coe, Brian Saunderson, and Mohamed Firin, as well as DC Board members, students, employees, and industry partners, underscoring DC’s vital contribution to preparing the next generation of workers.

“Durham College is thrilled to strengthen our programs through this provincial initiative,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, DC. “By expanding our skilled trades and construction offerings, we’re equipping graduates to meet Ontario’s housing and infrastructure growing needs. With hands-on, future-focused training, our students are gaining the skills and experience to thrive and make a real difference in their communities.”

Minister Piccini echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of investing in the province: “A productive workforce is a healthy workforce, and today’s announcement is another step forward in breaking down barriers for more youth to access meaningful and rewarding careers.”

For learners, the funding represents a direct investment in their future. “As a student,” said Mariah Jarvis, currently enrolled in DC’s Electrical Engineering Technician program, “it’s exciting to see the government supporting the skilled trades. It shows that what we are learning today in the classroom will make a difference tomorrow.”

Minister Quinn emphasized how students in these sectors are shaping the future:

“Students benefiting from this funding will build the homes, highways, hospitals, and critical infrastructure of tomorrow, strengthening what makes Ontario an incredible place to call home,” said Minister Quinn. “Our colleges, universities, and Indigenous Institutes are more than just world-class places of learning — they are the epicentres for workforce development and economic growth.”