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Tech Innovators Summer Camp: Exploring the Future

For inquiries, please email: cifalom@yorku.ca

Serving families across the GTA, the Tech Innovators Summer Camp at York University in Toronto is an immersive, hands-on technology and STEM day camp designed for curious kids from nine to 12 years old, and youth aged 13 to 18.

Led by the United Nations-affiliated training centre CIFAL York, this five-day program introduces students to the the cutting-edge technologies shaping our world. Through expert-led sessions by York University professors, interactive workshops and practical projects, participants gain foundational knowledge, develop critical thinking skills and explore potential career paths in the fields of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, drone technology, geographical information systems and programming.

The camp fosters creativity, collaboration and problem-solving in a supportive and inspiring university environment, empowering students to become the next generation of tech innovators. By the end of the camp, students will have hands-on experience with the tools and platforms used in these fields, a deeper understanding of real-world applications, and the confidence to pursue further studies or careers in technology.

All participants will receive a certificate issued by United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and CIFAL York upon completion of all mandatory full day activities.

UN-Affiliated Certification

All Participants will receive a Certificate of Participation issued by United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and CIFAL York upon completion of all mandatory full day activities.

Drone Technology

Topics Covered

Programming & Coding

Virtual Reality

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Computers & Machines

Why choose the Tech Innovators Summer Camp?

  • Learn from York University professors, supported by postdoctoral fellows and graduate students from different fields
  • Gain real-world experience through hands-on projects
  • Explore future STEM and technology career pathways
  • Receive a United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and CIFAL York certificate of completion
  • Equipment provided, no prior knowledge or experience required
  • Lunch and snacks included!

Camp Objectives

  • Provide an engaging and educational introduction to five key technology areas.
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on projects and workshops.
  • Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
  • Inspire students to explore potential career paths in technology.
  • Create a fun and supportive learning environment.

Who Could Attend?

Kids Camp: From 9 - 12 Years Old

Youth Camp: From 13 - 18 Years Old

  • Please note that you do not need to have a background knowledge to successfully participate in this camp.

Course Instructors

  • This camp is conducted by York University Professors and supported by Post Doctoral Fellows and graduate students from different fields.

Camp Materials

All required materials will be provided.

  • Drones and related equipment.
  • Laptops with necessary software (AI platforms, VR development tools, GIS software).
  • Simulators and programming tools.
  • VR headsets and controllers.
  • Project materials and consumables.

Daily Agenda

Explore the Future: Our 5-Day Tech Camp Curriculum

Each day concludes with an assessment to reinforce learning and track progress.

Day 1

Computers and Machines

  • Morning Session: Smart Machines Around Us
  • Midday Session: Learn How Computers Store Information
  • Afternoon Session: Learn How Computers Think

Day 2

Programming Day

  • Morning Session: Learn Coding Logic and Hands-On Workshop
  • Midday Session: Creating Coding with Scratch
  • Afternoon Session: Programming in Action

Day 3

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Day

  • Morning Session: Teachable Machine Playground
  • Midday Session: Learn How Machines Find Patterns
  • Afternoon Session: Classify Emotions Challenge

Day 4

Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • Morning Session: Explore How AI Understand Body Movement
  • Midday Session: Hands-On Workshop (AI Charades)
  • Afternoon Session: Music Generation using AI

Day 5

Day of Virtual Exploration

  • Morning Session: Drone Technology
  • Midday Session: Learn How Autonomous Vehicles Navigate
  • Afternoon Session: Ethics of Autonomous Vehicles Workshop

Day 1

Computers and Machines

  • Morning Session: Learn How the Internet Works
  • Midday Session: Python Basics (Game Design Principles)
  • Afternoon Session: Automation using Python

Day 2

Programming Day

  • Morning Session: Find & Solve "Bugs" Challenge
  • Midday Session: Code Relay Challenge
  • Afternoon Session: Game Design Challenge

Day 3

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Day

  • Morning Session: Introduction to AI
  • Midday Session: Learn Importance of Data
  • Afternoon Session: Learn How Machines See - AI in Action

Day 4

Drones In Th Sky Day

  • Morning Session: Introduction to Drones
  • Midday Session: Build & Fly a Drone Workshop
  • Afternoon Session: Drone Ethics

Day 5

Virtual Reality Day

  • Morning Session: Introduction to VR & AR Technologies
  • Midday Session: Hands-on VR World Building Experience
  • Afternoon Session: Experience Professional VR Applications

Registration and Fees

  • Registration Deadline:
    • July Camp (July 13-17, 2026): July 6, 2026
    • August Camp (August 10-14, 2026): July 31, 2026
  • Day Fee: $150.00

Register for the full week (5 days) for $600.00.

How Registration Works:

  • Registration is completed through Eventbrite. After registering, families will be contacted within three business days to complete all required consent, medical and dietary forms.
  • Registration is considered complete and confirmed only after all mandatory documents have been submitted and approved.
  • The camp will proceed only if the minimum number of registrations is met. If this requirement is not fulfilled, registered families will be notified and issued a full refund at least seven days before the start of the camp.
  • Full refunds will be issued only if a registration is cancelled at least seven days before the start of the scheduled camp. Refund requests made after this deadline are not eligible for reimbursement.
Register for the July Camp
Register for the August Camp

Consent Forms

These forms must be completed as applicable and submitted through the appropriate portal below upon registration for the camp. They cover important information regarding your child’s dietary restrictions, medication, and any special medical concerns—please ensure all applicable forms are accurately filled out.

If you have any questions, please contact our Operations Coordinator at cifalom@yorku.ca

July 2026 Forms

Participant Consent Form
Dietary Restrictions & Allergy Information Form
Medication & Medical Concerns Form

August 2026 Forms

Participant Consent Form
Dietary Restrictions & Allergy Information Form
Medication & Medical Concerns Form

Submit July 2026 Summer Camp Forms

Parent/Guardian's Name
Child's Name
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        Submit August 2026 Summer Camp Forms

        Parent/Guardian's Name
        Child's Name
        Drop files here or
        Max. file size: 39 MB, Max. files: 3.
          Drop files here or
          Max. file size: 39 MB.
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            Max. file size: 39 MB, Max. files: 3.

              Organized By CIFAL

              CIFAL York is part of UNITAR's global network of training centres for knowledge-sharing, training, and capacity-building for public and private leaders, local authorities, and civil society. CIFAL Centres are local and regional hubs for innovative, participatory and co-creative knowledge exchange opportunities to support decision-making processes, build capacity, and accelerate the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals. Established in 2020, CIFAL York started its operation in June 2021 as the first CIFAL Centre in Canada. Health and Development training and knowledge sharing is among the key focusing areas of CIFAL York.

              For more information or questions please contact: cifalom@yorku.ca

              Camp Code of Conduct

              The following behaviors are not tolerated from any member of the camp. We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for everyone. The following actions will not be permitted:

              • Abusive or Discriminatory Language: This includes swearing, name-calling, taunting, mocking, mean jokes, slurs, and discriminatory comments.
              • Bullying: Bullying is defined as repeated, intentional harm or threats of harm to an individual or group.
              • Physical Harm: Behaviors that put others at risk, such as hitting, punching, kicking, pinching, spitting, biting, or throwing objects. This also includes encouraging others to harm someone.
              • Damage to Property: Disrespecting or damaging camp spaces, furniture, or program supplies.
              • Inappropriate Behavior: Displaying inappropriate sexual behavior towards others, including comments, gestures, or physical contact.
              • Leaving Without Supervision: Leaving without permission, creating a safety concern.
              • Disregarding Safety Instructions: Ignoring directions or guidance from camp staff.

              Depending on the severity of the incident, a camper may be withdrawn from camp for engaging in any of these behaviors.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              The Tech Innovators Summer Camp is a week-long, in-person technology and STEM summer camp hosted by CIFAL York at York University. The program introduces children and youth to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), programming and coding, virtual reality (VR), drone technology and more through hands-on workshops and guided activities.

              The camp takes place at the ADERSIM Lab, situated in the basement of the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto. Upon entering the building, take the elevator down to the lower level and follow posted directions to Room N004.

              Public transit: The Schulich School of Business is easily accessible by public transit via the TTC subway system. The building is located across the street on Ian Macdonald Boulevard, a short walk from York University Station on Line 1.

              Pedestrian pathways from the station clearly lead to the Schulich School of Business entrance. The station is Wheel‑Trans accessible, with access available at the north entrance, making the location convenient for riders with mobility needs.

              Parking: For visitors arriving by car, parking is available in the Student Services Parking Garage, located behind the south side of the Schulich School of Business. The entrance to the garage is accessible via James Gillies Blvd. The parking garage has an underground indoor link to the Schulich School of Business. Upon entering the garage, drivers should proceed to the lower level and follow signage directing them to the Schulich School of Business / Executive Learning Centre (ELC). From there, visitors can walk through the underground connection directly into the building.

              Students are grouped by age to ensure age-appropriate learning experiences. The kids camp is for ages 9 to 12. Youth camp is for ages 13 to 18.

              The camp is led by York University professors who are supported by postdoctoral fellows and trained graduate students from various academic and technology-focused disciplines.

              No prior experience is required. The camp is designed for beginners and curious learners, with step-by-step instruction and hands-on guidance provided throughout the week.

              Yes. Campers are supervised at all times by trained instructors and staff. Leaving the camp area without permission is not permitted.

              Drop-off and Pick-up are at Schulich School of Business. Take the elevator and come to the basement, then follow the directions to reach room N004. Drop-off is between 8:30 am – 9:00 am, and pick-up is at 4:00 pm.

              Registration is completed through Eventbrite. After registering, you will be contacted within three business days to complete required consent and medical forms. Registration is finalized only after all mandatory documents are submitted and approved.

              The camp office must be notified in writing, via email, at least 10 days prior to the beginning of the camp to receive a full refund. Pro-rated refunds are not available for days absent. The full session’s fees are due even if a child is registered and attends only part of a session.

              The camp will proceed only if the minimum number of registrations is met. If the camp is cancelled, families will be notified at least seven days before the start date and will receive a full refund.

              Lunch and snacks are provided. Parents and guardians are required to submit dietary restrictions and allergy information during registration.

              Upon registration, parents/guardians must submit the "Dietary Restrictions and Allergy Information Form." This information helps camp staff ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

              Upon registration, parents/guardians must submit the "Medication and Medical Concerns Form." This information helps camp staff ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

              For questions or additional information, please contact the CIFAL York Operations Manager Francesco del Carpio at cifalom@yorku.ca.

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