On Tuesday, March 30, more than 275 young scientists from 32 schools will get the chance to showcase their science abilities and connect with other young scientists from across the province, says Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, Doug Currie.
“Participating in the school science fair is an excellent opportunity for students to explore their curiosity about the world around them, the type of curiosity that has led to many incredible discoveries,” said Minister Doug Currie. “Being invited to the provincial science fair is a great achievement and the result of hard work. Islanders are encouraged to come out to UPEI on Tuesday and celebrate the students’ success.”
The theme of this year’s fair, Shaping our Future Through Science Education, highlights the importance of science education to the future economy of Prince Edward Island. PEI Science Fair Coordinator Bill Whelan says participating in the science fair can improve overall academic success. “Critical thinking, problem solving and communications are all key skills that students develop when they work on a science project,” he said.
The fair will be held at the Chi-Wan Young Sports Centre at UPEI. Parents, family members and friends are invited to attend after 2 p.m. The awards ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Over $10,000 in specialty prizes and awards has been donated by government, industry, community groups and organizations across PEI. The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is one of the largest supporters of the provincial science fair.
Once again, UPEI scientists will open up their research laboratories to science fair participants in the afternoon. There will also be some interesting engineering demonstrations and activities throughout the day.
This year, the top five students from Grades 7-12 will represent Prince Edward Island at the Canada-Wide Science Fair in Peterborough in May.