OPINION-EDITORIAL

CHOOSE SCIENCE. GO FAR.

 

By Moira Stilwell, M.D.

Minister of Advanced Education

and Labour Market Development

October 12, 2010

(554 words)

 

Science is everywhere and affects everything we do – from driving our cars, to how we communicate and how we learn in schools.  Science can improve the quality of our lives at many different levels – from our everyday activities to global issues.  You would have to live in an exceptionally remote part of our world not to enjoy at least some offshoot, some benefit of scientific inquiry. But does the average person really think about how science affects our daily lives?

 

Do we ever take a moment to consider the scientific research needed to ensure that our food is safe and wholesome, our clothing is made from durable, comfortable and attractive materials, and our homes and workplaces are equipped with modern appliances and technologically advanced equipment and tools to help make our lives better? 

 

In British Columbia and across Canada, scientists and researchers carry out – through chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics and other fields – a wide range of work which is continually leading the way to the development of many new products and practical solutions that are vital to every aspect of our daily lives.

 

Our government wants to engage British Columbians, in particular young people, in science and technology by showcasing the many exciting science-related fields such as trades, digital media, technicians and marine biology, the kinds of work these people do, and how science and technology impact our everyday lives and the communities we live in.

 

That’s why on Sept. 24, I was pleased to join Premier Gordon Campbell and students from Mount Pleasant Elementary School at Science World, to proclaim the 2010/11 school year, the Year of Science in B.C. 

 

Some of you may be wondering:  why science? why now?  Well, it provides us an opportunity to showcase the people and organizations that are bringing science to life across the province.  The tagline ‘Choose Science. Go Far’ will help raise awareness among British Columbians, in particular young people, that an education in science can lead to many varied and rewarding careers. 

 

This is particularly important now, as B.C. – and in fact the rest of the country and the world – moves towards a ‘knowledge’ economy.  Our economic future will depend on a new kind of literacy – in sciences, math and engineering.  Employment demand for science, technology engineering and math-related occupations will increases faster than other occupations over the next 10 years with more than 145,000 new job openings and an annual employment growth rate of 2.4%, compared to 1.8% for all occupations. As this shift continues to occur locally and globally, the demand for highly skilled workers will increase.

 

By encouraging our young people to pursue a better education in science today, we will be preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow and ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to build a strong economy, contribute to a healthier environment and bring about a brighter future for everyone. 

 

B.C.’s Year of Science is a unique opportunity to discover the fun and excitement of science. 

The Year of Science website includes a calendar of events taking place across the province. Visit the website to learn more about science in B.C. and to find out how to get involved in programs and events in your community.  And visit often.  The site will be featuring lots of new things to see and do as the year unfolds. 

 

Learn more at http://www.YearOfScienceBC.ca

 

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