Youth Engagement and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research

We live in a world defined by, and dependent on, science, research and technology (SRT). SRT literacy is the foundation of an innovative and productive society. SRT literacy is an evolving combination of attitudes, skills and knowledge all students need to develop inquiry and problem-solving abilities, to become lifelong learners and to succeed in a competitive, global economy.

Canadians need a solid grounding in these fields in order to participate as citizens and members of civil society in making decisions about issues ranging from the use of stem cells to nanotechnology, antibiotic use, genetic privacy and health disparities in vulnerable populations. 

SRT should inform all political decisions. As responsible and engaged citizens, it is crucial that we understand the importance of the SRT in our society, and appreciate the significance and value of the data and information it generates. Without strong levels of literacy in SRT, Canadians cannot take an active and informed role in our country's future.

SRT literacy is the first step in developing the talent pool from which Canada will draw its future innovators, in health research as in every other area of innovation. By engaging young people early, it increases their interest and the likelihood of their pursuing these areas as career options.

After comprehensive consultations with stakeholders involved in promoting SRT literacy, the health research community and others, CIHR has recently launched its youth and public engagement strategy.

The name and identity chosen for the strategy is Synapse - CIHR Youth Connection. For CIHR, this initiative symbolizes the act of creating a meeting place, a junction that brings together youth with researchers, engineers and scientists.

The objective of Synapse is to engage young people and encourage their interest in science and research. Increased knowledge and enjoyment of science should also help stimulate awareness and interest among young people for a career in health research, another major objective behind Synapse. Research shows that engaging young people early increases their interest in science and the likelihood they will pursue a career in the field.

The core of the program involves connecting CIHR-supported researchers with young people. We have formed partnerships with established groups such as Let's Talk Science, Actua and the Youth Science Foundation. These organizations not only understand how to communicate with young people, they also have experience in giving scientists and researchers the training and tools they need to be effective mentors.

« When I was a very young undergraduate student, a senior scientist in Canada took three hours of his time to talk to me about the excitement of a career in research. That conversation shaped my career choices for the next 30 years. Since then, I have seized a every opportunity I've had to talk with young people about science and my own passion for research. I hope that you will also choose to get involved in engaging people in the excitement, importance and process of science. I guarantee you won't regret it. »

Dr. Alan Bernstein, President of CIHR