The two scholarships have emerged as a result of the Norwegian Government's focus on Arctic issues and the Northern Dialogue between Norway and Canada. The Norwegian Embassy initiated a collaboration with Students on Ice because of the organization's successful work with youth and the environment.
Norway's Ambassador to Canada, Else Berit Eikeland, is tremendously pleased with the collaboration with Students on Ice which she states is in line with the Norwegian government's High North focus.: "I am thrilled about the Norwegian scholarships to the ArcticYouth Expedition. Today's young are tomorrow's adults who will have to live with the consequences of climate change. That's why this opportunity to see and experience the changes in the Arctic becomes so important." She also stresses that the work the participants do after the expedition - in building networks and sharing their experiences - is as important as the expedition itself.
Sheila Watt-Cloutier, a Nobel Prize Nominee, gives her endorsement of Students on Ice: “With programs like SOI, we have a chance at helping the world understand that the Arctic is indeed an early warning beacon and health barometer for the planet. As students and adults witness for themselves the dramatic changes during an SOI trip, they get a better appreciation of what it is we are all working hard to protect. We are counting on you to keep up the great work SOI!”
What is Students on Ice?
The Students on Ice program provides youth from across Canada and around the world with ship-based educational adventures to the Arctic and Antarctica. Our mandate is to educate and inspire the next generation of polar scientists, researchers and environmental leaders – and in doing so, help to provide them with a greater understanding and respect for the planet. We believe that the Polar Regions are the world’s greatest classrooms. They are the cornerstones of the global ecosystem and a tremendous platform for education. Since 2000 – nearly 1,000 high school and university students from 30 countries have visited the Polar Regions with this award-winning program. The program is available for high school students between the ages of 14-18. The Arctic Expedition will take place from August 4-20, 2010. Participants will travel with 70 other students and 40 educators from around the world on a ship-based journey exploring Northern Quebec (Nunavik), Baffin Island and the Davis Strait!
Participants are expected to make media appearances, give interviews and submit daily journals for the SOI Expedition Website. This expedition represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for youth to expand their knowledge about the circumpolar world, and to gain a global perspective of the Arctic, its wonders, and its present and future challenges. For more information on the expedition, education program, videos and photos, check out our website: www.studentsonice.com!