Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science Society Expands Programs for Grades 7-12
The connection between science and entrepreneurial aspirations will be strengthened among Nova Scotia’s junior high and high school students thanks to the efforts of the Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science (NS YES!) Society in conjunction with the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) and other partners. NS YES! is engaged in developing, delivering and promoting programs and materials that bring science, innovation and entrepreneurship to Nova Scotia science students in grades 7-12.
In addition to encouraging student participation in local school and regional science fairs, NS YES! will hold a three-day, summer science program at Saint Mary’s University that will help reinforce to youth the link between science and entrepreneurship. This will build on a yearly calendar of workshops and educational events designed to build and maintain young people’s interest in pursuing for-profit careers in science. These activities include a series of regional science fairs, from which 40 students are selected to represent Nova Scotia at an annual Canada-wide fair.
Last May, Nova Scotia’s top science students brought home 18 medals and were honored with prizes and scholarships totaling over $65,000.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is helping to support the NS YES! with a $60,000 contribution through its Business Development Program (BDP). This contribution will assist NS YES! with program delivery and upgrades to their website, software and promotional materials.
Quick Facts:
- NS YES is a volunteer group of parents, teachers, students, and professional scientists whose goal is to build a culture of scientifically literate people.
- Part of this project will include hosting the 14th annual Provincial Science Fair Showcase at Saint Mary’s University from April 30 – May 2, 2015.
- Ten regional science fairs will be held across the province in March and April and include both Mi’kmaq and Francophone school involvement.
- Each year, more than 10,000 grades 7 through 12 students in Nova Scotia participate in school-based science fairs, with more than 1,000 students moving on to participate in a regional science fair.
Quotes:
“Inspiring youth to understand the connection between science and our economic and social well-being is an important investment to make. Our Government is pleased to support the Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science Society as they implement science and entrepreneurship programs across the province to encourage a culture of exploration and innovation. ”
- The Honourable Peter MacKay, Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA)
“Evidence suggests that young people who have a desire to apply scientific solutions to everyday problems want to take their ideas to the marketplace. This partnership with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency will provide educators and students with the tools to support this drive, allowing keen young people to develop the fruits of their scientific curiosity into commercially viable initiatives.”
- Aja Lefave, Program Manager Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science
“In today’s global market, technology and innovation are critical to Nova Scotia’s economy. Programs that connect our youth to science, innovation and entrepreneurship will help them develop the skills needed for success now and into the future.”
- Michel Samson, Minister of Nova Scotia Economic and Rural Development and Tourism
Associated Links:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417/902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: Alex.Smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Aja Lefave
Program Manager
Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science Society
902-420-5526
Email: nsyes@smu.ca
Sonya Horsburgh
Communications Director
Nova Scotia Tourism Agency
902-798-6870 / 902-717-3724 (cell)
sonya.horsburgh@novascotia.ca
