Program Overview
The Foundation has embarked on a bold initiative aimed at Ontario university students in order to encourage them to become well-informed and engaged citizens. We will be offering small groups of students opportunities to experience and understand the various forms of government we have in our country from common law to the civil code to Indigenous forms of government.
Our first in-depth program will occur this fall, 2024. During the week of October 21 to 25 six students will spend time at Queen’s Park, Toronto, Superior Court in Toronto, House of Commons and Senate in Ottawa, as well as the Supreme Court in Ottawa.
Student Program
Exploring the reality of serving in elected office
Textbooks are helpful, but what really happens after someone is elected as an MPP or MP?
- Is Question Period just bad theatre?
- Why does it take so long for laws to be passed?
- Does the Canadian Senate have a useful role?
- What is the connection between the Assembly and the Courts? If the Court finds legislation to be unconstitutional what happens next?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of our parliamentary system?
- Is the position of Lieutenant General an anachronism?
These questions and many more will be answered for those university students selected to explore the reality of serving in elected office during a one-week intensive course. Accommodation, meals and travel during the week are provided by the program.
Qualifications for acceptance to the program
- Be age 18 or over
- You are a full-time 2nd year or beyond student at University of Toronto, York University or Toronto Metropolitan University (for Pilot Program only – if program evaluated as successful, then future programs will be promoted at every Ontario university.)
- The ability to speak and understand French is an asset but not a requirement
- Provide an explanation, in 250 words or less, of why you wish to enrol in this program
The students who participate will be required to submit a brief report at the end of the program.