The Ontario Government has launched a $1m CAD (~£600,000) scholarship for students enrolled in esports and other industry-related programmes.
According to the announcement, the funding will look to assist post-secondary students over a two-year period.
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The Ontario Esports Scholarship Program will offer financial assistance to students participating in game design, development and marketing courses that could lead to careers within the esports industry. The scholarship is available through a range of colleges and universities, with students receiving a scholarship this Autumn.
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, spoke on the scholarship: “As the first province in Canada to recognise the educational value of esports design and development in this way, we will support students who are building skills that can lead to discoveries, innovation, training opportunities and economic benefits for Ontario.
“This investment will help students pursue their passion and prepare for careers in the highly lucrative video game and esports sector, and to develop transferable skills valued by employers across countless industries.”
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The release states that the gaming and esports industry has supported over 55,000 full-time jobs in Canada. In recent months, various scholarships by esports organisations, such as Tribe Gaming and Razer, have appeared to provide the next generation in North America with the opportunity to find a career in the industry.
Lucie Lalumère, President and CEO of Interactive Ontario, also commented: “This exciting new scholarship will inspire more young people across the province to embrace the wide range of techno-creative careers in the video game and esports sector. We are thrilled with Minister Dunlop’s announcement and applaud the government for its leadership.”
Esports Insider says: The Ontario government supporting esports through a new scholarship programme is a great opportunity for aspiring students to start a career within the industry. Depending on its success, the programme could receive further support.