Investment in Let's Talk Science aims to reach 5 million young Canadians over the next five years
May 21, 2015 – Hamilton, Ontario
The Harper Government is making a major investment to help increase exposure to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among young Canadians from kindergarten to Grade 12. Through this investment, the Government hopes to increase the number of Canadians graduating and going on to well-paying jobs and careers requiring STEM skills. The Honourable Ed Holder, Minister of State (Science and Technology), joined by David Sweet, Member of Parliament for Ancaster–Dundas–Flamborough–Westdale, announced a $12.5-million investment over five years to Let's Talk Science. Minister of State Holder made the announcement at the Let's Talk Science Challenge at McMaster University, in front of more than 230 Grade 6, 7 and 8 students.
The funding will allow Let's Talk Science to expand its programming to reach 5 million young people from across Canada over five years, particularly those living in rural, remote and Aboriginal communities outside the major city centres. The funding will also increase the number of Let's Talk Science Outreach sites at universities and colleges to almost 50 across the country and expand the organization's capacity to reach French-speaking Canadian students in Quebec and across Canada.
With today's announcement, the Harper Government has more than quadrupled its investments that encourage young Canadians to develop a lifelong passion for STEM subjects leading to promising careers.
Enhancing STEM skills, and supporting organizations such as Let's Talk Science and programs such as the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada's PromoScience, was a commitment made in the newly updated science, technology and innovation strategy, Seizing Canada's Moment: Moving Forward in Science, Technology and Innovation 2014, delivered by Prime Minister Stephen Harper last December.
Let's Talk Science is a national, charitable outreach organization that creates and delivers unique learning programs and services that engage children, youth and educators in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The organization strives to prepare youth for their future careers and role as citizens in a rapidly changing world.
Scott French
Director of Communications and Parliamentary Affairs
Office of the Minister of State (Science and Technology)
343-291-2700
Media Relations
Industry Canada
343-291-1777
media-relations@ic.gc.ca
