SAIT plans to establish a a new school that will provide the latest in digital education, thanks to a $30-million donation from Calgary businessman and philanthropist David Bissett. It is the post-secondary school’s largest gift in its history.
The school will help position SAIT as a leader in digital transformation and education, the school said.
“I see every day the importance of technology in every field, whether it is investment management, oil and gas or agriculture. The advance in the associated technologies is breathtaking,” said Bissett, in making the donation. “If we are not fully competitive in these skills in the global economy, we are doomed to be a nation falling behind and will not be able to afford the standard of living and social services which we have enjoyed.”
In 2014, Bissett also donated $5 million to SAIT to establish the Bissett Bursary Program, providing full tuition annually to high school graduates who demonstrate financial need.
“We are honoured David Bissett has chosen SAIT,” said Dr. David Ross, SAIT’s President and CEO. “This significant contribution will enable SAIT to support our students and our industry partners, to develop the mindset, adaptability and knowledge to use and create technology to drive us forward.”
SAIT said plans for the school will be developed over the next few months, a process which will include consultation with industry partners and community leaders to ensure the design meets employer needs.
Mario Toneguzzi is a business reporter in Calgary.
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