Government of Canada Encourages Youth to Pursue Science and Engineering

Fredericton, New Brunswick, July 26, 2010 — Young Canadians will have greater opportunities to learn about science and engineering, thanks to a new federal investment. Speaking in Fredericton, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, announced, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, funding for Science East, an organization that teaches the basics of science in an entertaining and interactive way. Hands-on activities allow students to interact with exotic insects, make weather instruments and explore planets through an inflatable dome turned planetarium.

"Our government is proud to support organizations like Science East that work with young Canadians to promote an understanding of science and engineering," said Minister Ahsfield. "Canada needs budding young scientists to become the creators of tomorrow."

On July 7, 2010, the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology) announced $3.1 million in grants for 51 organizations across Canada to encourage the next generation of young scientists and engineers to learn about subjects such as robot programming, environmental science and renewable energy.

This investment is provided through the PromoScience program, which is administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). Organizations funded through these grants include universities, non-governmental organizations, museums, science centres and other groups from across the country.

"Training is one of the most important parts of NSERC's mandate," said Dr. Suzanne Fortier, President of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council. "By making science interesting and accessible, these organizations offer a very valuable service. They provide the spark that can inspire people to choose careers in science and engineering."

"It is imperative to New Brunswick's competitiveness that Science East respond to the province's increasing need for engaging science and technology learning resources to address the science gap," said Dr. David Desjardins, Chief Executive Officer, Science East. "In 2009, over 70 000 people experienced hands-on science through Science East — 50 000 of these were through outreach services. Industry Canada's support will enable us to reach further, into new classrooms and across communities, developing science literacy and attracting people to science using active, hands-on activities and experiences."

The PromoScience program offers up to three years of funding to organizations promoting science and engineering to young Canadians. A complete list of recipients can be found on the NSERC website.

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council is a federal agency whose vision is to help make Canada a country of discoverers and innovators for the benefit of all Canadians. The agency supports some 28 000 students and postdoctoral fellows in their advanced studies, promotes discovery by funding more than 11 800 professors every year, and fosters innovation by encouraging more than 1500 Canadian companies to participate and invest in post-secondary research projects.

Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502

Shannon Cobb
Media Relations and Public Affairs Officer
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
613-996-3861
Email: shannon.cobb@nserc-crsng.gc.ca