Ontario has launched a $1 million (Canadian dollars) scholarship program for students enrolled in esports and similar programs.
According to the announcement, the program will seek to assist post-secondary students over a two-year period.
The Ontario Esports Scholarship Program will offer financial assistance to students taking game design, development and marketing courses to pursue a career in the esports industry. The scholarship will be made available through various colleges and universities, with students receiving scholarships this fall.
“As the first province in Canada to recognize 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.”
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities
The announcement states that the gaming and esports industry supports more than 55,000 full-time jobs in Canada. In recent months, several scholarships from esports organizations such as Tribe Gaming and Razer have provided the next generation in North America with the opportunity to find careers in the industry.
“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.”
Lucie Lalumère, President and CEO of Interactive Ontario
The Ontario government looks to offer a great opportunity to start a career in the industry for students who support esports through a new scholarship program. Depending on its success, the program may be further expanded in the future.
