Global Ideas Institute (GII)
International Affairs - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Global Ideas Institute (GII) Employees
Global Ideas Institute (GII) Details
In our global economy, it is becoming increasingly important for students to learn about the world and to think in a global context. This cutting-edge program provides students with the tools, knowledge, and guidance to develop innovative solutions to complex world issues. Over the course of the year, students gain exposure to leading global experts, develop complex problem-solving skills, and deliver pitches to a panel of distinguished experts. Students receive guidance from University of Toronto experts, community and mentors during this year-long learning process.Founded in 2010, the Global Ideas Institute (GII) is an initiative of the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. The GII was conceived by Professor Joseph Wong and Professor Janice Stein to provide intensive research and learning opportunities for secondary students. Starting this year, the Global Ideas Institute is an ongoing collaborative program between the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, University of Toronto Schools, Rotman School of Management's Integrative Thinking and Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.Participating secondary school teams of students tackle a global challenge, a real-world problem without a current solution. U of T professors and expert practitioners present monthly lectures that provide context to the issue. Each student team is also assigned to U of T student mentors to guide and help them to develop innovative ideas to address the challenge. Students engage in a facilitated workshop with their mentors each month following an expert lecture. Finally, each lecture is supplemented with a package of articles, current research, and additional videos to provide students with context and knowledge. Faculty expertise combined with the support and guidance from U of T mentors prepares students for a day-long Final Symposium to present their ideas at the Munk School in April.
