Science fairs allow young people to gain valuable scientific, research and critical thinking skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister, Alan McIsaac.

“Science fairs taking place in schools this time of year allow students to explore ideas, develop scientific literacy and practice their presentation skills,” said Minister McIsaac. “The objective is to encourage more students to learn and enjoy science. I would like to congratulate all students for participating in their school science fair and I extend best wishes to those advancing to the provincial and national competitions.”

Students from participating schools across Prince Edward Island are selected to attend the Provincial Science Fair which will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island on Tuesday, April 3, 2012. The provincial fair traditionally features more than 200 presenters from across Prince Edward Island from grades 4 to 12. Five of the top projects from grades 7 to 12 will be selected to represent Prince Edward Island at the Canada Wide Science Fair.

Preparations are also well underway for the Canada Wide Science Fair which will be hosted at UPEI from May 12 to 19, 2012. This year marks the first time in its 50-year history that this prestigious event will be hosted in Prince Edward Island. As the largest science fair in the country, the Canada Wide Science Fair will feature more than 500 of the top young scientists in grades 7 to 12 selected from more than 100 regional fairs across Canada. Students will compete for medals and cash prizes valued at almost $1 million.

“Prince Edward Island is looking forward to hosting the Canada Wide Science Fair this year which will allow Island students to compete on the national stage in their home province,” said Minister McIsaac. “These types of extra-curricular activities help our students develop scientific literacy as well as confidence and project management skills that will prepare them for future challenges in education and in life.”

For more information on school science fairs, contact your school or child’s school. Information on the Canada Wide Science Fair is available at cwsf.youthscience.ca.