Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, President and Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg and George Heshka, Principal Sisler High School, surrounded by Sisler students, sign agreement to work together. Feb. 16, 2011
WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Sisler High School that links IT programs between Sisler and UWinnipeg’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE). The MOU allows Sisler students to participate in unique technology projects at the University and gives those students opportunities to earn University credits while in high school.
The initial focus of the partnership is to link Sisler’s Digital Media Certificate and Game Design Certificate programs with the IT programs that presently exist within the Division of Continuing Education. Students participating in these linked programs would receive University credits while they are in high school. The goal is to expand this relationship to include UWinnipeg degree programs. Sisler students participating will also have access to UWinnipeg’s state-of-the-art Digital Learning Lab, to be located inside the new Richardson College for the Environment and Science Complex, slated to open by summer 2011.
“This MOU is very exciting as we are making post-secondary education more accessible to Sisler students by offering them options to continue their education,” said UWinnipeg President & Vice-Chancellor Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, who is also a graduate of Sisler. “This relationship can change the future for many Sisler students, by providing students with the opportunity earn University credits while attending high school. This partnership gives Sisler students an edge in beginning their post-secondary education by sharing access to UWinnipeg instructors, professionals and technical resources.”
The relationship between UWinnipeg and Sisler includes the opportunity for Sisler students to work on unique technology projects. Some activity in this regard has taken place. Sisler students have enrolled in DCE Diploma / Certificate programs and many took part in a Serious Games Summer Camp. A “Lunch n’ Learn” series that presently runs out of Sisler includes topics on Web Design, Game Development and 3D Modeling. As well, some students are working towards creating an animated 3D model of the Buhler Centre that will be featured on both the UWinnipeg and Sisler websites.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Shawn Coates, Director of Marketing & Communications, University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7126, C: 204.230.0202, E: s.coates@uwinnipeg.ca
