Canada's top young scientists bring their award-winning projects to Parliament Hill

The Prime Minister's Science Fair celebrates the best and brightest young Canadians in STEM

OTTAWA, Sept. 19, 2018 /CNW/ - Canada is a country of innovators, and they start young. Canadians' curiosity, creativity and collaborative spirit are leading to the kinds of innovations and technologies that improve our quality of life and drive our economy. The earlier young Canadians are exposed to the wonders of science, the more likely they are to pursue it as a lifelong passion or even as a career.

The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport, today accompanied the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, at the second annual Prime Minister's Science Fair.

Close to 40 students between the ages of 10 and 18, who reflect Canada's diverse STEM talent, presented their projects on Parliament Hill. Their award-winning science projects advance knowledge and innovation related to health and aging, agriculture, robotics, and the environment.

The young scientists are award winners from regional and national science fairs and STEM-related contests across the country. The event is an opportunity for Canada's brightest young talent to connect and learn more about each other's work and to discuss their projects with Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Duncan.

Quotes

"Congratulations to the young scientists, researchers and innovators who participated in this year's Prime Minister's Science Fair. The incredible work they showcased today is an inspiration to people of all ages across Canada and demonstrates what can be accomplished with hard work, determination and encouragement. Their inventions, curiosity and creativity have the potential to build a better world for all."
– The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport

"Fostering a strong science culture in Canada is a top priority for NSERC. By supporting Canada's young discoverers and innovators, we are opening doors for the next generation of science leaders. These are the future leaders whose curiosity, ingenious ideas and problem-solving skills will help tackle issues that affect us all."
– Dr. B. Mario Pinto, President, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

Quick facts

• Budget 2018 made a historic investment of nearly $4 billion in support for research, researchers, and the equipment Canadian researchers need to succeed and improve the quality of life of Canadians.
• This includes almost $1.7 billion for fundamental research, delivered through Canada's granting councils to post-secondary institutions and research hospitals.
• The Prime Minister's Science Fair, which is organized in collaboration with the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, is a unique opportunity to celebrate Canada's best and brightest youth in STEM and to engage and inspire other young Canadians across the country.

Associated links

• 2017 Prime Minister's Science Fair

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SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Ann Marie Paquet, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Science and Sport, 613-404-2733, [email protected]; Media Relations, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, 343-291-1777, [email protected]