A state-of-the-art science laboratory at the St. Boniface Hospital Health Research Centre (SBHRC) will bring hands-on science education to Manitoba students and open doors to good jobs in biomedicine and related fields, Premier Greg Selinger said today at the grand opening of the centre.
“Our government is focused on creating good jobs and even more opportunities for young people,” said Selinger. “This new teaching lab will give students a chance to explore exciting opportunities in science and medicine that can lead to rewarding careers, right here at home.”
The 3,000-square-footYouth BIOLab received $450,000 from the provincial government and will help students cultivate a passion for science through interactive activities and experiments that complement the province’s science curriculum, the premier said. The $900,000 biomedical laboratory is built for students and teachers to experience medical research in an authentic and engaging setting, and is equipped with real laboratory equipment.
Since 2005, SBHRC has partnered with the Louis Riel School Division (LRSD) in a biomedical outreach program, dedicated to improving science and health literacy among Manitoba students. The program has reached more than 30,000 students to date from grades 4 to 12. With the new Youth BIOLab facility, more students, including students in school divisions outside of the LRSD and the city of Winnipeg, can be brought out of the classroom and into a research setting like the SBHRC.
Students and teachers will be able to tour the centre to view real science in progress and gain some hands-on experience through active participation in a functioning lab. The program strives to promote student interest in health care, healthy living, science and careers in research and allied fields.
“This project is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when school divisions, industry sectors and governments work together to create education and career opportunities for young people,” said Selinger. “Enhancing science education is part of our government’s long-term strategy to keep students interested and engaged in school, and aware of the many exciting career opportunities available to them right here in Manitoba.”