RDC launches program targeted toward top high school students

ST. JOHN'S, NL, Oct. 1, 2013 /CNW/ - The Research & Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador (RDC) today announced the launch of its third annual Research Inspired Student Enrichment (RISE) Awards. Directed toward high school students in the province who excel in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), recipients of the RISE Awards are sponsored to attend summer enrichment programs in the Arctic and throughout North America.

The RISE Awards provide an opportunity for hard working students to learn and gain insight into R&D-related fields. This program provides the groundwork for recipients to make educated decisions regarding their potential study and career choices.

"It's extremely important to give our future generation these kinds of opportunities," said the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister Responsible for RDC. "High school students are about to embark on major life decisions, and by giving them this sort of early exposure to research-related fields, our future scientists, engineers and researchers get a first-hand look at research in action."

Level II students in Newfoundland and Labrador who have obtained an average of at least 90% across all courses completed in level I as well as at least 90% across all science and math courses completed in level I are encouraged to apply to the RISE Awards by November 7, 2013.

Through the enrichment programs, students will attend workshops and lectures held by university professors, researchers and field experts, and partake in research-related activities. These include: Research Science Institute (RSI) based in Cambridge, MA, and the Students on Ice program, where students participate in an expedition to the Arctic. Other programs include; the Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program (DEEP) located at the University of Toronto, and; Shad Valley, which takes place at various university campuses across Canada.

"I encourage all level II students who excel in the STEM subjects to apply for this award," said Glenn Janes, CEO, RDC. "After two successful years of the RISE Awards, we have heard from several students who benefited from the programs and gained both research knowledge and a better understanding of what they want to do with their futures. It's inspiring to hear that these students are going on to do great things. I am proud to present this opportunity to another group of well deserving young researchers."

To find out more about the RISE Awards as well as the recognized enrichment programs, visit www.rdc.org

About the Research & Development Corporation

RDC is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for improving Newfoundland and Labrador's R&D performance. RDC works with R&D stakeholders including business, academia and government agencies and departments.

SOURCE: Research & Development Corporation

Media contacts:

Chris Flanagan
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Research & Development Corporation
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Heather MacLean
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Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 697-4137
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