Latest news with #InformationSystems
National Post
09-06-2025
- Business
- National Post
Westcliff University Launches New Campus to Support Toronto's Innovation Ecosystem and Fuel Canada's Booming Tech Workforce
Article content New Master's in Information Systems Technology (MIST) Program Addresses Soaring Demand for Skilled Cybersecurity and AI Professionals Article content IRVINE, Calif. & TORONTO — Westcliff University, a global leader in career-focused higher education, is establishing its first international campus in Toronto—one of North America's fastest-growing technology hubs—to help meet Canada's urgent demand for skilled IT professionals. Ontario's tech sector is projected to add 300,000 jobs by 2030, yet key IT roles already face a 51% vacancy rate, with a 90% surge in the need for cybersecurity, AI and smart manufacturing talent. To address these workforce gaps, Westcliff is launching a Master's in Information Systems Technology (MIST) degree, developed in close collaboration with regional IT leaders to directly align with the needs of local employers. Article content Toronto is home to more than 288,000 tech professionals and the world's highest concentration of AI startups, creating a vibrant ecosystem requiring specialized training in cybersecurity and smart technology. Westcliff's MIST program equips mid-level professionals and emerging graduates with the skills essential to drive industry growth, strengthen the local talent pipeline and reinforce Toronto's standing as a world tech leader. Article content 'Toronto is a recognized force in global technological innovation, and our institution is honored to support its impressive trajectory,' said Dr. Anthony Lee, president and CEO of Westcliff University. 'Establishing a presence in Canada enables us to deepen multinational knowledge exchange while delivering the hands-on, job-oriented education that defines Westcliff. With a 30-year legacy of market-driven education, we are committed to staying attuned to shifting industry trends and integrating regional insights with global expertise. Our focus is on graduating employment-ready leaders equipped to drive advancement, contribute to their local economy and help solidify Toronto's position as a world-class technology hub.' Article content The new MIST program features: Article content Industry-Designed Curriculum: Developed in consultation with leading technology firms and local officials to ensure immediate real-world applicability. Flexible Learning Models: Eight-week course cycles with in-person and online engagement to accommodate working professionals. Innovation Sandbox: A collaborative, project-based learning environment that delivers hands-on opportunities for students to tackle real-world business challenges. Real-World Expertise: A multidisciplinary faculty with extensive industry experience in cybersecurity, AI and enterprise IT solutions. Agile, Evolving Coursework: A program structure that adapts to dynamic trends and labor force demands. The campus, located within Venture Lab 's 50,000-square-foot innovation space in Markham—one of the area's fastest growing tech hubs just north of Toronto—places students at the center of a dynamic environment that has supported over 4,000 companies and attracts significant investment. By learning in this immersive setting alongside the sector's top thought leaders, Westcliff students will gain invaluable exposure, build lasting professional connections and access career and entrepreneurial opportunities in Canada's growing digital economy. Article content 'Toronto is proud to welcome Westcliff University as a valuable addition to support our region's burgeoning tech landscape,' said Markham City Mayor, Frank Scarpitti. 'By cultivating a skilled workforce that aligns with industry needs, Westcliff is equipping future professionals with the specialized skills and leadership capabilities that will yield even more innovation and economic prosperity in our city.' Article content As a Canadian-registered institution recognized for its commitment to Ontario's workforce development, Westcliff's Toronto campus will continue to be guided by its Program Advisory Committee (PAC) of Toronto-based tech leaders to ensure its curriculum remains aligned with evolving market requirements. Article content Westcliff's Toronto campus will welcome its first cohort of students in July 2025, with information sessions and webinars leading up to the opening to help prospective students explore programs, meet faculty and tour the facilities. For more information, program offerings and enrollment details, visit Article content About Westcliff University: Article content Westcliff University Article content Article content is an innovative global higher education institution with its finger on the pulse of the international business landscape and the needs of today's employers. Founded in 1993 and based in Irvine, Calif., it offers bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees spanning multiple areas of study including business, education, technology, computer science, engineering and law. Westcliff is a California Public Benefit Corporation which affirms its dedication to operating in the best interests of its students and the surrounding community. Its programs focus on both the hard and soft skills needed to secure quality jobs in high-growth industries; it offers community and business engagement opportunities for the hands-on experience today's students require; and it provides innovative and affordable programs live online and in classrooms across the globe. Visit Article content Facebook Article content , Article content Instagram Article content and Article content LinkedIn Article content . Article content Article content Article content Article content View source version on Article content Article content Contacts Article content MEDIA CONTACT: Article content Leslie Licano, Beyond Fifteen Communications, Inc. Article content Article content Article content
The Star
05-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Make the most of UOW Malaysia's Open Day
UOW Malaysia is gearing up to receive school leavers at its upcoming Open Day. JUST finished your SPM and wondering what's next? Get your answers with a trip to the University of Wollongong Malaysia's (UOW Malaysia) Open Day. Whether it's to discover programmes that match your interests, ask burning questions or get a real feel for campus life – this is your chance to explore the right pathway for your future studies. This checklist will help you make the most of your visit, even if you've already picked a programme or are still deciding. Prepare for your campus visit Being well-prepared allows you to walk away with more than just brochures – you'll have answers, clarity and maybe even a clearer vision for your future. Here is a quick list to make sure you have got everything so you can focus on exploring, asking questions and taking it all in: > SPM results (trial or final) > A shortlist of programmes you're interested in > Questions for lecturers > A notebook to jot down notes Explore top programmes Detailed academic counseling is provided during Open Day, helping students to navigate various programme choices at UOW Malaysia. Open Days are one of the best times to check out programmes that match your interests and aspirations. Get a head start by exploring some of UOW Malaysia's top offerings: > Computing: If you are drawn to technology, a Diploma in Information Technology is a solid starting point to build a practical foundation to degree options like the Bachelor of Computer Science, Bachelor of Information Systems or Bachelor of Software Engineering. You will explore specialised computer science programmes that prepare you for the evolving tech landscape. > Engineering: UOW Malaysia's engineering programmes cover courses in the Mechanical, Mechatronics and Electrical and Electronic fields, giving you the chance to explore how things work and how to improve them through industry-relevant learning. > Business: If strategy and leadership appeal to you, the Bachelor of Business offers hands-on courses in digital business, marketing, sustainable business, logistics and finance. > Communication: For those passionate about storytelling or branding, the Bachelor of Communication includes specialisations focused on corporate communication, advertising media management, journalism, broadcasting and visual communication. Ask the right questions The Open Day presents a good opportunity for prospective students to find out more about various academic pathways. Open Days are the perfect time to get answers directly from academic staff and counsellors. Jot down any questions you have about scholarships, internships, career prospects or more. If you're struggling to come up with one, here are some helpful questions to ask: > What sets similar programmes apart? > What career opportunities do graduates typically have? > Are there chances for internships? > What support services are available for new students? Getting the answers you need will help you understand your options better to make well-informed decisions about your future. Make the most of your experience Once you get your questions out of the way, get a feel for campus life by joining guided tours to explore student spaces. You may uncover a new passion or discover a programme you had not considered. Visit UOW Malaysia's Selangor and Penang campuses for Open Day on these dates: June 14 to 21 July 24 to 26 August 7 to 9 August 16 and 17 It is open to both walk-ins and appointments. For more information about programmes and campus events, visit UOW Malaysia's official website.
Yomiuri Shimbun
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Yomiuri Shimbun
ICE Is Reversing the Termination of Legal Status for International Students around the US
AP File Photo Students march at Arizona State University in protest of ASU's chapter of College Republicans United-led event encouraging students to report 'their criminal classmates to ICE for deportations', Jan. 31, 2025, in Tempe, Ariz. SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The U.S. government is reversing the termination of legal status for international students around the country after many filed court challenges against the Trump administration crackdown, federal officials said Friday. The records in a federal student database maintained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement had been terminated in recent weeks. Judges across the U.S. had already issued orders temporarily restoring students' records in dozens of lawsuits challenging the terminations. More than 1,200 students nationwide suddenly lost their legal status or had visas revoked, leaving them at risk for deportation. Many said they had only minor infractions on their record or did not know why they were targeted. Some left the country while others have gone into hiding or stopped going to class. Government says it will restore student status Word of the policy pivot came Friday from lawyers representing the government in several of the lawsuits. A lawyer for the plaintiff in one of the lawsuits, Brian Green, provided The Associated Press with a copy of a statement a government lawyer emailed to him on the restoration of legal status for people whose records were recently terminated. It says: 'ICE is developing a policy that will provide a framework for SEVIS record terminations. Until such a policy is issued, the SEVIS records for plaintiff(s) in this case (and other similarly situated plaintiffs) will remain Active or shall be re-activated if not currently active and ICE will not modify the record solely based on the NCIC finding that resulted in the recent SEVIS record termination.' SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems database that tracks international students' compliance with their visa status. NCIC is the National Crime Information Center, a database of criminal justice information maintained by the FBI. Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant Homeland Security secretary, said ICE had not reversed course on any visa revocations but did 'restore SEVIS access for people who had not had their visa revoked.' Several colleges said Friday they noticed legal status already had been restored for some of their students, but uncertainty remained. 'It is still unclear whether ICE will restore status to everyone it has targeted and whether the State Department will help students whose visas were wrongly revoked,' said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Legal fights may not be over Green, who is involved in lawsuits on behalf of several dozen students, said his cases only sought restoration of the student status and that he would be withdrawing them as a result of the statement Friday from ICE. But lawyers in the Oakland case are seeking a nationwide order from the court prohibiting the government from arresting or incarcerating students, transferring them to places outside their district or preventing them from continuing work or studies. Pam Johann, a government lawyer, said it was premature to consider anything like that given that ICE was in the process of reactivating records and developing a policy. 'We should take a pause while ICE is implementing this change that plaintiffs are seeking right now, on its own,' she said. But U.S. District Judge Jeffrey S. White asked her to humor the court. 'It seems like with this administration there's a new world order every single day,' he said. 'It's like whack-a-mole.' He ordered the government to clarify the new policy. Visa revocations and student status terminations caused confusion Last month, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said his department was revoking visas held by people acting counter to national interests, including some who protested Israel's war in Gaza and those who face criminal charges. But many students whose status was terminated said they did not fall under those categories. A survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs research found that even the visa revocations for students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests are more unpopular than popular. About half of U.S. adults oppose this policy, and only 3 in 10 are in support. Among college educated adults, 6 in 10 strongly oppose, compared with 4 in 10 who aren't college graduates. In lawsuits, students argued they were denied due process. Many were told that their status was terminated as a result of a criminal records check or that their visa had been revoked. International students and their schools were caught off guard by the terminations of the students' records. Many of the terminations were discovered when school officials were doing routine checks of the international student database. Charles Kuck, who filed a case in Atlanta on behalf of 133 students across the country said ICE's reversal can't undo the distress and hardship they have faced in recent weeks. 'I've got kids who lost their jobs, who might not get them back,' he said. 'I've got kids who lost school opportunities who might not get them back. We've got kids who missed finals, missed graduation. How do you get any of that stuff back?' Jodie Ferise, a higher education attorney in Indiana, said some students at schools her law firm works with already left the country after receiving instructions to self-deport. 'This unprecedented treatment of student status had caused tremendous fear among international students,' Ferise said. 'Some of them were too frightened to wait and hope for the administration to change course.' Earlier this week, before the government's reversal, Ferise said the situation could hurt international student enrollment. 'The world is watching, and we will lose students, not just by the technical revocation of their status, but by the message we're sending that we don't want them anyway and that it isn't safe to even try to go to school here,' she said. At least 1,220 students at 187 colleges, universities and university systems have had their visas revoked, their legal status terminated or both, since late March, according to an Associated Press review of university statements, correspondence with school officials and court records. The AP has been working to confirm reports of hundreds more students who are caught up in the crackdown.
AsiaOne
26-04-2025
- Politics
- AsiaOne
US universities help foreign students weather Trump purge, World News
From warnings not to leave the country to guidance on how to complete degrees, US universities are advising foreign students how to withstand President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. First immigration agents arrested students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. Then thousands of foreign students were targeted for deportation over minor offences and arrests. Meanwhile, university advisors quietly told students from abroad to hire a lawyer and keep attending classes while legal appeals played out, according to over two dozen students, immigration attorneys and university officials Reuters spoke to. For now, the strategy appeared to be working as the Trump administration on Friday (April 25) said it was restoring the visa registrations of foreign students whose legal statuses were terminated since late March. The move followed dozens of legal wins by students who challenged the terminations. With a record 1.1 million foreign students in the country, at stake is the US$44 billion (S$57.8 billion) they contributed to the US economy last year, according to the Association of American Universities, a higher education advocacy group. It's not just the money. MIT President Sally Kornbluth pointed to global talent, saying hers "is an American university, proudly so — but we would be gravely diminished without the students and scholars who join us from other nations". Indians hit hard Over half of foreign students in the United States are from India and China, according to the Institute of International Education advocacy group. Since late March US Immigration and Customs Enforcement deleted more than 4,700 names from the Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems database of visa holders, often citing criminal activity, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Of those, almost half were Indian students, many of them graduates in work experience known as Optional Practical Training, based on an AILA study of 327 cases. [[nid:716907]] Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin urged students whose SEVIS status had been revoked to leave. "If you are in our country illegally, we will arrest, we will deport you, and you will never return," McLaughlin said in a statement. DHS did not immediately respond to a request for comment after Friday's reversal on SEVIS terminations. Over 200 students removed from SEVIS have won court orders temporarily barring the administration from taking actions against them, according to a Reuters count. University officials told full-time students with SEVIS terminations to hire a lawyer. Those who contested being deleted from SEVIS were allowed to continue studying, said an official who advises foreign students at one major university, asking to remain anonymous in order to speak about the situation. "For the most part, the students I've spoken to, their schools are permitting them to keep attending classes," said New York immigration attorney Clay Greenberg, who is representing students with SEVIS terminations. George Mason University in Virginia told students to contact advisors to discuss ways to complete coursework. The University of California said it was finding ways for students to continue their education, said Rachel Zaentz, a spokesperson for the UC Office of the President. With summer break weeks away, Duke University recently warned international students not to leave the United States over fears they may not be let back in come fall. Students worry, self-deport After watching videos of pro-Palestinian students picked up by federal agents, foreign students fear deportation for speeding tickets or being fingerprinted, said an Indian computer science grad student at a Southwest US university, who asked not to be named. Some have self-deported. Momadou Taal, who led pro-Palestinian protests at Cornell University, left in March after being told to surrender to immigration officials. "I'll be able to finish up remotely," said Taal, a dual citizen of the UK and Gambia who planned to complete his studies in the United Kingdom. An Indian student in Georgia said his legal status was revoked after he was identified in criminal records showing he was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. The charge was dismissed, he said. "My college is letting me continue," said the computer science undergraduate, adding that he was being careful. "If I see anyone in a uniform, I turn around," he said, requesting anonymity. ALSO READ: In first 100 days, Trump tells migrants 'leave the United States'
25-04-2025
- Politics
ICE is reversing termination of legal status for international students around US, lawyer says
The federal government is reversing the termination of legal status for international students after many filed court challenges around the U.S., a government lawyer said Friday. Judges around the country had already issued temporary orders restoring the students' records in a federal database of international students maintained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. The records had been suddenly terminated in recent weeks, often without the students or their schools being notified. A lawyer for the government read a statement in federal court in Oakland that said ICE was manually restoring the student status for people whose records were terminated in recent weeks. A similar statement was read by a government attorney in a separate case in Washington on Friday, said lawyer Brian Green, who represents the plaintiff in that case. Green provided The Associated Press with a copy of the statement that the government lawyer emailed to him. It says: 'ICE is developing a policy that will provide a framework for SEVIS record terminations. Until such a policy is issued, the SEVIS records for plaintiff(s) in this case (and other similarly situated plaintiffs) will remain Active or shall be re-activated if not currently active and ICE will not modify the record solely based on the NCIC finding that resulted in the recent SEVIS record termination." Green said that the government lawyer said it would apply to all students in the same situation, not just those who had filed lawsuits. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems database that tracks international students' compliance with their visa status. NCIC is the National Crime Information Center, which is maintained by the FBI. Many of the students whose records were terminated were told that their status was terminated as a result of a criminal records check or that their visa had been revoked. International students and their schools were caught off guard by the terminations of the students' records. Many of the terminations were discovered when school officials were doing routine checks of the international student database or when they checked specifically after hearing about other terminations.
