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News Release

Canadian researchers examine the latest impact of digital technologies on the economic landscape

Ottawa, ON – February 2, 2021: The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), in collaboration with the Future Skills Centre, is announcing today a funding of over $ 1 million, following its Knowledge Synthesis Grant (KSG) competition on Skills and Work in the Digital Economy. Thirty-six research projects across Canada will benefit from this grant and will be undertaken during the first half of 2021.

The KSG supports researchers in identifying how academic, public, private and not-for-profit sectors should adapt in response to the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technologies, including within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This  competition was launched in July 2020 and seeks to provide a better understanding of the implications of digital technologies for workers and employers in the current economic landscape.

The Knowledge Synthesis projects will examine labour market issues such as gender and racial equality; equitable access to technology; labour market policy, remote work and organizational management; and privacy. Findings will help inform decision-making and policy development towards a better, more equitable future for all Canadians.

“Working in the Digital Economy” is one of the 16 global future challenges identified in 2018 through SSHRC’s Imagining Canada’s Future initiative. These complex issues were identified following an extensive foresight exercise and reflect key challenges that Canadians are likely to face over the coming decades.

SSHRC’s investment in synthesizing existing research knowledge will improve access to critical research in understanding the impact of technology in the workplace and the economic challenges we face in a rapidly changing world.
Ted Hewitt, President, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

Understanding the current key trends in our economic landscape and work environment is critical, considering the recent and complex changes that have taken place in our labour market. These research projects will bring very valuable data and findings to help Canadian employers and policymakers on the path to economic recovery.
Pedro Barata, Executive Director, Future Skills Centre

ABOUT SSHRC

The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) is the federal research funding agency that supports postsecondary-based research and research training in the humanities and social sciences. SSHRC strategically supports world-leading initiatives that reflect a commitment to ensuring a better future for Canada and the world.

ABOUT FSC

Future Skills Centre is a forward-thinking research and collaboration hub dedicated to preparing Canadians for employment success and meeting the emerging talent needs of employers. As a pan-Canadian community, FSC brings together experts and organizations across sectors to rigorously identify, assess, and share innovative approaches to develop the skills needed to drive prosperity and inclusion. FSC is directly involved in innovation through investments in pilot projects and academic research on the future of work and skills in Canada. The Future Skills Centre is funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Program. The Future Skills Centre is funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Program.

Media Contacts:

Eglantine Ronfard

Bilingual Communications Manager
Future Skills Centre
Phone: 647.262.3706
Email: eglantine.ronfard@fsc-ccf.ca

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