Yukon student heading on Arctic expedition

WHITEHORSE—Yukon student Emerald Kains is packing her bags for a 16-day Arctic expedition with Students on Ice, partly thanks to funding from the department of Education and Yukon College.

“We are pleased to co-sponsor a student to represent our territory in this one-of-a-kind educational opportunity to explore the circumpolar North and gain new perspectives on different environments and cultures,” Education Minister Patrick Rouble said. “I wish Emerald all the best on this expedition and hope the experience helps her determine the direction in which she’d like to take her education.”

The Department of Education’s First Nations Programs and Partnerships Unit provided $5,000 to provide a space for a First Nations student on the trip; Yukon College also provided $5,000. Students on Ice was responsible for selecting the student for the scholarship, which aims to educate and inspire the next generation of polar scientists and environmental leaders. The scholarship is awarded to high school students who demonstrate leadership potential and a passion for learning, as well as an interest in environmental and polar issues.

“Research, discovery and educational capacity all address the goals of the Yukon Research Centre at Yukon College,” Yukon College vice-president of research Chris Hawkins said. “We are pleased to co-sponsor a student ambassador who will bring this educational experience back to Yukon, for the benefit of the community as a whole.”

The Students on Ice expedition will include 70 international high school students and a team of 45 world-renowned scientists, educators, Aboriginal Elders, historians, artists, writers, innovators, leaders and polar experts. The team will depart on July 23 from Toronto and return through Ottawa on August 8 after exploring Iceland, Greenland, northern Labrador and Nunavik.

“We are thrilled to have Emerald joining us on the Students on Ice 2011 Arctic Expedition,” executive director and expedition leader Geoff Green said. “She will be joining students and staff from over 13 countries, including five of the eight circumpolar nations. This overall experience will undoubtedly provide her with a better understanding and respect for many northern and global issues, as well as inspiration that will help shape her future.”

The Students on Ice expedition program aims to inspire youth to learn about global issues and empower them to bring about positive change.
For more information visit Students on Ice.
 

Contact:
Elaine Schiman
Cabinet Communications
867-633-7961
elaine.schiman@gov.yk.ca

Jacqueline Bedard
Yukon College, Dir. College Relations & International
867-456-8619
jbedard@yukoncollege.yk.ca

Chris Madden
Communications, Education
867-456-6789
chris.madden@gov.yk.ca

Chris Ralph
Communications, Students on Ice
Toll-free: 866-336-6423
chris@studentsonice.com