News Release

MIRAMICHI (GNB) - Illuminate, a Science East program designed to highlight career opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, will expand into northern New Brunswick thanks to investments by the provincial and federal governments.

“New Brunswickers want their government to make investments that help the economy and improve their quality of life,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser, who is also minister responsible for the Northern and Miramichi Funds. “Investments in education and training help accomplish both these goals. Our investment to bring this program to communities in northern New Brunswick will help develop interests and inspire the next generation.”

The program is offered to middle school students from both linguistic communities.

“The federal government is committed to empowering our young people,” said Miramichi-Grand Lake MP Pat Finnigan. “By supporting the growth of entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives like Science East’s Illuminate, we help young adults consider the numerous opportunities that exist in science and business in Atlantic Canada.”

Finnigan attended the event for federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also the ministers responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The provincial government is contributing $147,150 and the federal government, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, is providing $147,150 towards the project. Science East is contributing $32,700.

Illuminate is an outreach program that combines science experiences through in-class activities with an interactive public event. Private sector companies, non-profit groups, public agencies, researchers, and entrepreneurs in each region provide hands-on experiences. Event participants can try the tools and innovative technologies that are being used on the job today in various fields.

“We ask the invited companies and organizations to focus on tangible experiences,” said David Desjardins, CEO of the Science East Science Centre. “Children remember what they do. When multiple senses are engaged in a learning experience, they are more easily applicable to our lives. That is powerful. Illuminate creates conversations between the people using and producing innovations and the communities in which they operate. This is especially important for families who are raising the next generation.”