While Lethbridge is known to have some of the top scientists and researchers in Canada, the city will gain even more brainpower next year when more than 400 of Canada's best young scientists visit the city for the Canada-Wide Science Fair, May 11-18.
Youth Science Canada, along with federal, provincial and City representatives, announced last week that Lethbridge would host the 52nd annual Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) through its local host organization, Southern Alberta Technology Council (SATC). The weeklong event will be presented at the University of Lethbridge and University of Lethbridge biological sciences researcher, Dr. Roy Golsteyn, has volunteered to be the Chief Judge.
"This is a great opportunity to showcase our facilities and technology to Canada's top-level students and their families," says Golsteyn. "Like many of us, I still fondly recall that my first steps into science started at school science fairs. The values of the Canada-Wide Science Fair are perfectly aligned with our values of education, mentorship and research. I am looking forward to engaging the U of L and broader community as judges and volunteers, and having fun with this project."
The fair will feature more than 400 outstanding science projects created by students from grades seven through 12 who have been selected from more than 100 regional competitions across the country.
The event will include project judging, social and cultural exchanges, tours to regional science and research facilities, along with visits to featured southern Alberta tourism destinations. Approximately 800 parents, judges, sponsors and dignitaries will accompany the participants.
The 2013 CWSF will showcase southern Alberta's culture, industry, research and educational facilities including the U of L, Lethbridge College and the Canada-Alberta Research Station. Its success will be enhanced by the involvement of many community organizations and individuals who will come together to make the entire science fair experience a memorable event for participants.
Volunteers will be recruited to assist with a variety of hosting duties, and there will be a specific need for those with bilingual capabilities. CWSF participants representing each province will be housed in student residences on campus at the University where many of the activities will take place. Included in the event are opening ceremonies, several rounds of judging, presentations by leading science authorities and a gala awards banquet and ceremony.
