However, for a university located in a region like Abitibi Témiscamingue, innovation can play an even more critical role in its development.

First and foremost, innovation can help attract and retain students and professors. By developing innovative programs and offering exciting research opportunities in partnership with the community, UQAT attracts talented students and professors from around the world looking to make their mark. Indeed, it is with great pride that UQAT recently ranked second for the third consecutive year in research intensity per professor among 21 Canadian universities in its category, mainly offering undergraduate programs.

Universities also play a vital role in Québec’s economic development. By encouraging research and development in crucial fields such as mining, forestry, water management and agriculture, UQAT helps stimulate innovation in key sectors of its regional economy, as well as that of the province. To foster this development, we play a leading role in creating an environment conducive to innovation, notably through the creation of research centers and chairs in partnership with industry to help students and professors develop innovative ideas and turn them into reality.

Finally, our university needs to take a long-term view of its role in the region as a vital link in the regional innovation ecosystem. This means working closely with local and provincial governments, businesses and civil society organizations to define a clear strategy for our development. Finally, UQAT must be a catalyst for innovation, knowledge development, and economic and cultural growth in the region by training highly qualified personnel, helping to create jobs, and improving citizens’ quality of life.