The U of M and University of Winnipeg are hosting Science Rendezvous on May 11 at the U of M Fort Garry campus. // File photo
Engaging youth in science
On May 2, four University of Manitoba science outreach projects received a record $746,900 to promote and enhance science and math education in Manitoba.
The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport announced the funding while also launching this year’s edition of Science Odyssey, Canada’s science and technology festival delivering fun and engaging events for Canadians of all ages. Powered by NSERC, the 16-day event celebrates Canadian STEAM achievements and connects people with scientists, researchers, teachers and citizen scientists at hundreds of events in communities across the country.
The U of M and University of Winnipeg are hosting Science Rendezvous on May 11 at the U of M Fort Garry campus. This involves a free day of fun and discovery The public is invited to explore the science around you through 50+ hands-on activities for the whole family. Discover Day received $15,000 in funding in today’s announcement and is part of Science Rendezvous activities.
“Increasing science literacy among young Canadians will increase the number of students who pursue careers in STEM fields. Science outreach activities, such as those taking place throughout Science Odyssey, contribute to a strong science culture and ultimately improve the lives of all Canadians,” says Dr. Digvir Jayas, vice-president (research and international) and Distinguished Professor at the U of M.
Other projects funded include:
Learning Science Through Land
Stephane McLachlan (environment and geography) will use this funding ($399,900) over the next three years, for a program titled Kis Kin Ha Ma Ki Win: Learning Science Through Land. This program will complement ongoing science education programs that infuse Indigenous cultural content into curricula. This new project will see Indigenous students engage in innovative educational activities, co-facilitated by Elders, environmental scientists, and Indigenous scholars, at 25 land-based camps and 25 workshops in at least 20 Indigenous communities across Manitoba. This cross-cultural approach will promote the shared value of environmental science and Indigenous traditions for participants.
WISE Kid-Netic
Nusraat Masood leads the WISE Kid-Netic program, founded in 1990, that offers 20 science workshops annually for Kindergarten to Grade 12 classrooms. Workshops are offered in French and English and are designed to reinforce the Manitoba science curriculum. Funding from the NSERC PromoScience of $300,900 will maintain their outreach levels to remote First Nation communities.
SWIM
The Summer Workshop In Mathematics (SWIM) is organized by the Mathematics Department and will receive $31,100 for a two–week workshop for early- and middle-year teachers seeking to enhance their skills and background in mathematics.
NSERC’s PromoScience program offers financial support for non-profit organizations working with young Canadians to promote an understanding of science and engineering, including mathematics and technology.
Science Odyssey, which runs from May 4 to 19, brings together over a thousand of events from across Canada where people can experience the country’s rich culture of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).
Research at the University of Manitoba is partially supported by funding from the Government of Canada Research Support Fund.
These are important preparations for our future skilled workforce and for helping people to better understand the realities in which we live. Bravo to all the leaders and the participants!