Location: Ministry Home > News Releases >

  Monday, December 18, 2006

News Release
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

December 01, 2006 - 199

McGuinty Government Helps Northern Youth Pursue Careers In Science And Technology

Students To Use New Virtual Reality Facility In Timmins Library

TIMMINS – The McGuinty government is investing in a program that will help high school students explore science and engineering careers, Minister of Northern Development and Mines Rick Bartolucci announced today.

“Our government is committed to providing a quality education that ignites the imaginations of our young people,” said Bartolucci, who made the announcement on behalf of Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  “This investment will allow students the use of Virtual Reality technology and will help them explore science and engineering careers.”
The Mining Innovation, Rehabilitation and Applied Research Corporation (MIRARCO) will receive $150,000 over three years from the Ministry of Research and Innovation through the Youth Science and Technology Outreach Program (YSTOP).
The corporation, in partnership with Science Timmins, will use the funds to motivate high school students to explore science and engineering careers by undertaking science projects using state-of-the art Virtual Reality technology. 

Minister Bartolucci, who also chairs the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), made the announcement at the official opening of the Timmins Virtual Reality Studio.  In 2005, the NOHFC invested $1.7 million in the establishment of a network of virtual reality facilities in Northern Ontario, including the Timmins site.

 “We’re on the side of Ontario families who want the best opportunity for their children’s future,” said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  “This outreach program is part of our plan to create a culture of innovation in Ontario by developing the next generation of research leaders.”

YSTOP delivers science and technology programs to youth living in rural and remote communities, and youth at risk who may not have the opportunity to participate in extra curricular science and technology-related activities.  

It is estimated that, through YSTOP, over 2,000 researchers, technologists and graduate students will mentor 100,000 youth through hands-on science and technology experiences.  More information is available at: www.ontario.ca/ystop.

-30-

Contact:

Laura Blondeau
MNDM – Sudbury
(705) 564-7454 

www.resultsontario.gov.on.ca