Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
June 26, 2015

Supporting a Culture of Youth Innovation

Provincial Government Invests in International Ocean Tech Competition

Approximately 700 young people from around the world are participating in an ocean technology competition at Marine Institute and the National Resource Council’s Ocean Coastal, and River and Engineering facility. The 14th international MATE Centre (Marine Advanced Technology Education) remote operated vehicle (ROV) competition runs until Saturday, June 27, testing young teams on their abilities to build and operate ROVs. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is supporting the competition with approximately $96,000.

“As industries continue to focus on innovation, it is essential for governments to support opportunities that expand the abilities of young people, to help them think differently, find creative solutions, and learn outside the classroom. The Provincial Government is pleased to support the MATE ROV competitions, and I wish the participants all the best in this exciting experience.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

This year’s competition is focused on offshore oil and gas, particularly installation, maintenance and environmental aspects.

“The competition is a great experience and gives young people a chance to explore professions in science and technology.”
- Andrew Sullivan, Mission 1 Specialist, Clarenville High School

The Marine Institute of Memorial University has hosted regional competitions since 2006, with the most recent in May 2015, and hosted the international competition in 2007. MATE is based in Monterey, California, and its primary focus is to promote ocean science and technology in education.

QUICK FACTS

• Approximately 700 young people from around the world are participating in an ocean technology competition at Marine Institute.
• The 14th annual international MATE Centre (Marine Advanced Technology Education) remote operated vehicle (ROV) competition runs until Saturday June 27, testing young teams on their abilities to build and operate ROVs.
• The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is supporting the competition with approximately $96,000
• This year’s competition is focused on offshore oil and gas, particularly installation, maintenance and environmental aspects

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Media contact:

Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570? tansymundon@gov.nl.ca

2015 06 26                             3:10 p.m.