The environment will be the main topic of discussion when over 100 high school students converge in St. John�s from May 21-27 for a week-long national forum: Our Earth, Our Environment, Act! The annual Interchange on Canadian Studies (ICS), co-hosted by the Department of Education and the Eastern School District, will provide an opportunity for students from across the nation to interact with their peers, while exploring the important and complex issue of the environment.

"The conference is a tremendous opportunity for our young people to gain an understanding of environmental issues," said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. "Research, sustainable development and management of the province�s natural resources are critical to ensuring a healthy environment for the benefit of present and future generations. Therefore, we look to today�s students to be active, aware and committed to environmental sustainability."

The Provincial Government is providing financial support for the conference, recognizing the importance of giving students educational opportunities beyond the regular curriculum. "The province�s overall support for our students is not just ensuring they can read and write," said Minister Burke. "With a Budget 2007 allocation of more than $1 billion, we not only provide our students with the core curriculum required to ensure their academic achievement, we support initiatives to ensure a well-rounded educational experience to help students take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, congratulated the participants for their interest in protecting the environment and noted the importance of supporting their efforts.

"My department continues to support the inclusion of environmental education in the school curriculum, and the work of groups like the Conservation Corps of Newfoundland and Labrador, who operate youth-related environmental programs that bring the important message about climate change and what our youth can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said Minister Jackman.

The ICS will offer students thought-provoking, informative and action-oriented sessions, with a line-up of nationally renowned keynote speakers, daily field trips to local areas of interest, and social activities for students.

"We are delighted to co-host this national forum for high school students and commend the organizing committee for creating a strong educational and social program," said Darin King, CEO/Director of Education, Eastern School District. "Environmental issues should be of concern to all of us and I am confident that this forum will help our young leaders be part of the solution to improve our environment for future generations to enjoy."

Opening ceremonies for the Interchange on Canadian Studies (ICT) will take place Tuesday, May 22 at 8:45 a.m., room 2109 in the Science Building, Memorial University. Minister Burke will address conference participants, followed by Bob MacDonald, well-known science reporter, journalist and host of the popular CBC radio show Quirks & Quarks.

"I am pleased to welcome students from throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and across the nation to our beautiful capital city," said Minister Burke. "I wish all students an informative and fun-filled week and encourage each student to take full advantage of this excellent learning opportunity."

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2007 05 18                                                   2:05 p.m.