Ottawa, May 19, 2026 — Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) welcomes the recent report by the External Advisory Panel on the Creation and Dissemination of Scientific Information in French, launched by Canadian Heritage, which highlights the strategic, cultural, and economic value of French-language research across the country.
CICan applauds, in particular, the report’s clear recognition of the value and importance of college and CEGEP-led applied research. We strongly support the Advisory Panel’s call to review and strengthen funding for this research, which directly addresses the needs of businesses and communities, facilitates the development and adoption of technologies, and ultimately contributes to the vitality of Francophone communities.
CICan also supports the report’s recommendations, many of which reflect the points highlighted by CICan in the brief submitted to the Advisory Panel. These recommendations will enable the Government of Canada to fully leverage the expertise of French-language and bilingual colleges and CEGEPS in regional economic development, workforce training, support for innovation focused on the needs of local businesses and communities, and the implementation of large-scale national projects.
“Research in French, and applied research in particular, is essential for generating concrete solutions we need to meet Canada’s most pressing challenges, such as building better homes faster, strengthening our military and defense capabilities, and driving Canada’s energy transitions. The applied research conducted by Canada’s colleges and CEGEPs, including those serving Francophone communities, is a key driver of strong and innovative communities,” said Pari Johnston, President and CEO of CICan.
CICan also appreciates that the report highlights the persistent challenges faced by French-language and bilingual colleges, particularly regarding funding and visibility and reiterates its commitment to advancing the recommendations and translating them into concrete action.
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About Colleges and Institutes Canada
Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) is the national voice of Canada’s dynamic network of publicly funded colleges, institutes, CEGEPs, polytechnics, and Indigenous Institutes of Education. By convening, mobilizing, and championing the sector, we amplify the value and impact of our members to advance the priorities that matter most to Canadians.
With more than 95% of Canadians living within 50 km of a CICan member institution, and through the extensive global reach of its network, CICan positions colleges and institutes as essential partners in addressing today’s most pressing challenges – both in Canada and around the world.
We respectfully acknowledge that CICan’s offices in Ottawa are located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation.
For more information
Matthew Smith
Director, Communications
Email: msmith@cican.org
Twitter : @CollegeCan