The FSS Challenge is a weekend-long intensive experience that brings together students from across the University of Ottawa to design meaningful, practical solutions to real societal issues. Each Challenge emphasizes active engagement, collaborative teamwork, professional mentorship, and a structured process, from initial brainstorming to final presentations and reflective analysis.

Who can participate?

FSS Challenges require a significant commitment over a short period. Participants must therefore be able to fully dedicate themselves to this intensive experiential learning opportunity.

FSS Challenges are open to all undergraduate students at the University of Ottawa, regardless of their interests, experience, or skill set. No specific technical expertise is required, only an open mind, curiosity, a collaborative spirit, and determination. Graduate students are also welcome to participate. However, those wishing to receive academic credit must consult their academic unit in advance to determine whether participation is eligible for course units.

To participate in most FSS Challenges, you must:

  • be enrolled full-time in your program of study (part-time students may also participate by paying the applicable micro-credential fee);
  • have successfully completed at least 24 units at the time of registration;
  • be in good academic standing and have a financial account in good standing with the University;
  • commit to participating in the Challenge from beginning to end.

Participants who successfully complete all requirements will receive a 1.5-unit micro-credential through FSS 3702 – Specialized Workshop in Social Sciences II. The course is evaluated on a Satisfactory (S) / Not Satisfactory (NS) basis. 

You may participate in more than one FSS Challenge, subject to space availability and program requirements. You may also participate in other experiential learning opportunities offered by faculties across the University of Ottawa, such as the Faculty of Arts Innovation Labs, Telfer Innovation Sprints, and Health Co-Creation Sprints. Depending on the program requirements, some of these experiences may be recognized as part of your degree requirements.

Be sure to explore the many experiential learning opportunities available at the University of Ottawa.

Upcoming Challenges

Hands

Accessing Community Services in the City of Ottawa (November 6-8, 2026)

How can we make it easier for people to find and access the community services they need? Join this hands-on FSS Challenge and collaborate with fellow students to tackle a real-world issue facing the City of Ottawa. Over three days, you'll work in interdisciplinary teams, connect with community partners and mentors, develop innovative, practical solutions and have a real impact in your community.

Bilingual event.

Registration opens in September 2026.

Green trees seen from the ground

Climate Change in a Multispecies World (November 13-15, 2026)

The “Climate Change in a Multispecies World” challenge examines the interrelationships of humans and nonhumans in an era of climate change. This Challenge will allow students to learn about the impact of climate change on human communities and non-human populations with a focus on vulnerabilities. The Challenge features interdisciplinary presentations, teamwork, and personal reflection. 

Event in English only.

Registration opens in September 2026.

What students say about the Challenge...

Fatima Al-Khafaji

"This has been one of the coolest opportunities to meet and connect with new people. I was grouped with such amazing people, and we worked so well together. Now I have five new best friends! This challenge taught me how to be a better listener, give better ideas, communicate, connect, and work under immense pressure. Getting the opportunity to meet with deputy ministers, mentors, and people in the public/private sector. Getting hands-on advice and listening to those experiences was so cool. Especially with the short time we had to complete this challenge, it was so helpful having mentors guide us with their advice, and working all those long hours was all worth it at the end. So grateful for this opportunity and would 1000% do it over again!"

Fatima, 
Participant, October 2025

Past challenges

October 3-5, 2025
House of Commons of Canada

Welcome Minister

Wonder what it’s like to advise a federal minister on day one of their new role? During this Challenge, students will pool their knowledge and expertise to develop a briefing book for a new federal government minister following their appointment to Cabinet. As a team, they will create a written document and an oral briefing from the point of view of the department's non-partisan public service team.

Registration is closed.

November 14-16, 2025
Globe among green grass and shrubs

Climate Change in a Multispecies World

The “Climate Change in a Multispecies World” challenge examines the interrelationships of humans and nonhumans in an era of climate change. This Challenge will allow students to learn about the impact of climate change on human communities and non-human populations with a focus on vulnerabilities. The Challenge features interdisciplinary presentations, teamwork, and personal reflection. 

Registration is closed.

January 30-31, February 1, 2026
Laptop

Hack the Truth: Combating Disinformation

Are you ready to put your academic skills to the test? Join us for an immersive, hackathon-style weekend 1.5-credit course designed for students who want to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: disinformation.

Registration is closed.

Group_Challenge
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