The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology:

Speaker, I ask all Honourable Members to join me in congratulating the recipients of the 2022 Research Inspired Student Enrichment – or RISE – Awards.

I had the privilege of personally sharing the exciting news with one of the recipients – Samuel Ruttgaizer of Marystown Central High School. He, along with 14 other Level ll high school students, are being recognized for their interest in research and innovation, as well as their academic excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Provincial Government is pleased to deliver the Awards program including support for tuition, accommodations and travel for recipients to attend summer research-related enrichment programs at either the Boston Leadership Institute or the Research Science Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Speaker, the application process for the RISE Awards was very competitive. I was happy to learn of the significant interest this year, with all applicants demonstrating high academic achievements and strong interest in research and development activities. Our government is committed to the early development of talent that is required to advance research and development, encourage innovation, and foster economic growth for our province.

Speaker, the successful recipients are from many regions throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. I speak on behalf of all Honourable Members to say we are very proud of these exceptional students, and we wish them the best as they represent our province abroad in the months ahead.