News Release

For immediate releases                                                      August 24, 2000

SYDNEY, N.S. -- A detailed evaluation of Science, Technology and Entrepreneurship for Youth (STEY) programs sponsored by Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) and delivered by University College of Cape Breton (UCCB) for the past 11 years has resulted in strong support for the programs and a $186,007 federal government contribution toward the programs over the next two years. Students and parents responded to questionnaires about the programs, which promote self-confidence and self-esteem, expose young people to science, technology and entrepreneurship and encourage youth to consider a career opportunity in Cape Breton as an entrepreneur.,/p>

"The close working relationship between ECBC and UCCB is beneficial to many economic sectors and these programs address the serious issue of youth out-migration in a positive and innovative manner," said the Honourable Bernie Boudreau, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, who made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable George Baker, Secretary of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and ECBC.

ECBC will make a $104,107 non-repayable contribution through the Business Development Program toward the $138,809 total cost of delivering the programs over two years. An additional $81,900 non-repayable contribution will go toward hiring a coordinator for the programs.

"The Government of Canada is pleased to support programs that benefit Cape Breton Island's next generation of business people, industry leaders and entrepreneurs," said Senator Boudreau.

"We are thrilled that students and parents share our confidence in these youth programs and the measurable impact they have on Cape Breton's future," said Dr. Jacquelyn Scott, UCCB President and Vice-Chancellor. "This most recent investment will bolster that confidence and help us further realize the success of our long-term partnership with ECBC toward meaningful community economic development."

A key program objective is to expose young people to Cape Breton Island's emerging knowledge-based economy. The latest program offerings include this year's VentureFEST, National Science & Technology Week and Friends Forever programs in addition to next year's Mini-Venture, Technology for Teens, Passport to Reading and ongoing activities such as Science and Fine Arts Day and acting classes. The programs involve youth from elementary, junior and senior high schools, university students, teachers, parents, schools, community groups and the local private sector.

Student evaluation forms indicated VentureFEST, a week-long UCCB camp and the major youth entrepreneurship program for elementary, junior and senior high school students, influenced participants' decision to study in the fields of science and technology and that the program gave participants confidence and self-esteem to explore their own potential. Senior professionals, members of industry and companies with whom Cape Breton youth may someday work, also provided positive feedback on the programs.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs in Cape Breton and the Mulgrave area.

For Further Information Contact:

D.A. Landry
ECBC Communications
Tel: (902) 564-3617
Fax:(902) 564-3825
E-mail: dlandry@ecbc.ca

Suzanne Campbell Spencer
Director, Institutional Advancement
University College of Cape Breton
Tel: (902) 563-1138
Fax:(902)-563-1377