Students on Ice expedition provides unique learning experience for youth

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Derrick Dalley.

The provincial government is providing $12,000 in financial support to allow a student from Newfoundland and Labrador to participate in the 2013 Students on Ice Expedition later this year.

The Students on Ice program is an educational expedition that takes place in the Arctic region. It focuses on learning about the environment and exploring the unique landscape of the northernmost area of the globe.

“The Students on Ice program offers a valuable opportunity for young students to experience first-hand Canada’s unique Arctic ecosystem,” said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Derrick Dalley. “Our government is very supportive of such initiatives, which encourage youth to become involved in activities that promote science and education, and provide a greater understanding of our marine environment and conservation issues.”

The program provides for in-depth learning about the Arctic environment and northern Indigenous cultures, while participants explore solutions to pressing global challenges. Participants are also inspired to make a difference in their own communities.

The 2013 excursion will explore the eastern Canadian Arctic and western Greenland between July 14 and 28. It will involve 70 international high school students, 14 to 18 years old, a team of 35 scientists, historians, artists, explorers, educators, innovators and polar experts, and 30 public and private sector leaders.

“Participants on Students on Ice expeditions become exceptional polar ambassadors who work to raise awareness in their home communities about the importance of many polar and global issues,” said Geoff Green, founder and executive director of Students on Ice. “We are delighted that once again this year, thanks to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, a student from Newfoundland and Labrador will get the opportunity to visit the Canadian Arctic, one of the world’s most unique places, and then bring back the knowledge they have gained to their friends, family, schools and communities. On behalf of Students on Ice and our many partners, I sincerely thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for contributing to the Students on Ice Arctic expedition and providing young people with a meaningful, positive and profound experience in their lives.”

While on the expedition, students participate in lectures, workshops, hands-on activities and small group seminars. They also have extraordinary wildlife encounters, educational day excursions, visits to remote Arctic communities and archeological sites, and opportunities to acquire first-hand knowledge and insight into the dynamics of climate change. This year marks the sixth Newfoundland and Labrador student sponsored to participate in the Students on Ice Arctic Expedition under the department's Coastal and Oceans Strategy program. About $59,800 in funding has been provided since 2010.

More information on the Students on Ice program can be found by visiting www.studentsonice.com