How Canadian universities are developing AI skills

Gabriel Miller of Universities Canada explains why Canadians should be hopeful about AI and the use of the technology in higher education.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, Canadian universities are emerging as key players — not only in developing technology, but in teaching students how to use it responsibly.

In an interview with CTV Your Morning Wednesday, Gabriel Miller, president and CEO of Universities Canada, said AI is being built on campuses and actively used by students in their daily academic work.

Miller acknowledged growing public concern around AI but emphasized that Canadians should feel optimistic about the role universities are playing.

“Canadians are more worried about AI than they are excited about its opportunities,” Miller said. “The reason they can be hopeful is that there are really exciting, important things happening on university campuses right across the country.”

Miller said students are working with teachers in real time to learn the tools needed to be successful in an economy that’s going to be driven by AI.

Balancing innovation with human skills

According to Miller, one of the biggest challenges facing educators is ensuring that AI enhances learning, rather than replaces it.

“We have to preserve a space where your critical thinking, your human skills, continue to develop, frankly, in traditional ways,” he said. “ I think we’re seeing some schools and some classes turn back to traditional exams. You’ve got a pen, paper.”

Miller said in scenarios like these, “your brain is going to do the work.”

At the same time, Miller stressed that avoiding AI altogether is not the answer.

“They do need to be exposed to AI so that they’re literate. They need to leave school work-ready so that they can apply these tools,” Miller said. “We need young people who are far more computer literate and at ease with AI than (older people) are to succeed.”

Closing the gap between research and economic growth

Despite Canada’s strong global reputation in AI research, Miller acknowledged a persistent challenge: retaining talent and translating innovation into economic success.

“Canada was the world leader, and I think still is in terms of its university research and AI,” he said. “But we haven’t retained as many of the commercial benefits with the jobs or the wealth that AI has had potential to create.”

To address this, he called for stronger connections between academic research and industry, as well as increased investment in public AI infrastructure. This would allow startups and smaller companies to access the computing power needed to compete with larger international firms.

Equally important, he added, is fostering entrepreneurial skills among students so they can turn ideas into businesses, jobs and long-term economic growth.

Advice for parents

For parents and caregivers who may feel overwhelmed by the rapid rise of AI, Miller offered a message: engage, rather than retreat.

“These are ultimately tools...like when farm machinery revolutionized agriculture in Canada, or when the computer eliminated secretarial pools,” he explained. “What’s important is that we’re creating opportunities for our kids and our workers to step into as AI changes the old opportunities.”

He encouraged families to explore AI together, have open conversations and take advantage of local universities, which are increasingly serving as community hubs for AI education and resources.

As AI continues to evolve, Miller says the future will belong not just to those who build the technology, but to those who understand how to use it wisely.