Located within walking distance from Parliament Hill, the University of Ottawa connects students with Canada’s political life. As a bilingual institution, we promote innovation and global engagement.
Seventh annual U7+ Alliance Presidential Summit
April 22 to 23, 2025
The University of Ottawa is delighted to host the seventh annual U7+ Presidential Summit April on 22 and 23, 2025.
A word from uOttawa president Jacques Frémont
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 U7+ Alliance Presidential Summit at the University of Ottawa – one of Canada’s top 10 research universities and the world’s largest bilingual (French-English) university. I look forward to joining you in meaningful discussions about human-centered artificial intelligence, as well as the ethical, legal and educational implications of AI on society. We have an incredible roster of authoritative speakers who will share their knowledge and expertise as we work together to leverage our collective influence and intellectual resources to drive positive change on a global scale.
Best wishes for a successful summit!
U7+ Alliance
The U7+ Alliance is a coalition of university presidents from around the world who are dedicated to both dialogue and tangible action. It encourages university initiatives that tackle the world’s most urgent challenges within a multilateral framework. This alliance is the first of its kind and aspires to strengthen the role of university leaders as influential global participants in the multilateral agenda.
The University of Ottawa: In the heart of Canada’s capital
Global partnerships
Global partnerships
Learn more about our international partners
The University of Ottawa fosters dynamic global partnerships that promote collaboration, innovation and academic excellence.
Canada’s vibrant capital
Canada’s vibrant capital
Explore what Ottawa has to offer during your stay
Ottawa, Canada’s vibrant capital, offers a blend of cultural attractions, scenic beauty and unique experiences for all.
Spring weather
Spring weather
Check Ottawa weather forecasts
Spring weather in Ottawa can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging between 1°C and 11°C.
Transportation
Accommodations
The University of Ottawa has negotiated preferential rates with the following hotels:
The Westin Hotel
11 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa ON
K1N 9H4
Toll free: +1-888-627-8528
Le Germain Hotel
30 Daly Avenue
Ottawa ON
K1N 6E2
Tell free: +1-833-503-0030
Summit program
The summit will include panel discussions and a gala.
Join us for the Welcome Cocktail on April 21
A welcome cocktail event will also take place April 21 at 5 p.m. More details will be available closer to the event.
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Presidential Steering Committee Meeting (in-person only)
10:45 a.m. Optional visit of Innova space
11:30 a.m. – Noon Registration
11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Lunch
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Welcome by Meric Gertler, President, University of Toronto (Canada), and U7+ Alliance Chair and Jacques Frémont, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Ottawa (Canada)
Keynote speaker: Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Session One: Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Given the rapid advance in AI, the 2025 U7+ Communiqué will focus on the significant role universities play in a number of areas of AI. This includes the pivotal role universities play in developing new AI innovations and applications; how universities contribute to reskilling and catalyzing positive opportunities for AI to affect work and economic prosperity, as well as how to foster a better understanding of the negative impacts of AI. The discussion will also focus on the important role that universities can play in bridging the increasing inequalities between North and South in terms of access to AI talent, research and infrastructure. Finally, the panel will focus on the substantive opportunity for universities to provide informed advice to authorities and policy makers in critical areas such as AI safety, security and governance matters.
Moderator: Daniel Jutras, Rector, Université de Montréal (Canada)
Speaker: Laura Chaubard, Director General, École Polytechnique (France)
3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. Break
3:45 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Multilateral Engagement
This expert panel will explore how recent geopolitical events are influencing opportunities for continued multilateral action and examine the potential impacts on the G7 as well as ways in which the U7+ Alliance and its member institutions can continue to effectively partner with national governments. The discussion will cover the influence of current geopolitics on global academia, recognizing the unique role that universities play in fostering cross-border cooperation and in addressing global challenges through research, education and community engagement. The session will further address how the U7+ Alliance can contribute to shaping policies that promote academic freedom, scientific exchange, and innovation. It aims to develop actionable insights and recommendations.
Moderator: Luis Vassy, Director, Sciences Po (France)
5:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Day 1 Closing Remarks
- Meric Gertler, President, University of Toronto (Canada), and U7+ Alliance Chair
- Jacques Frémont, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Ottawa (Canada)
6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Gala and dinner
Questions?
Contact us
Host institution: University of Ottawa
Email for logistics: [email protected]
U7+ Secretariat
Email for registration: [email protected]