National Youth Science Forum Jan 2013 Canberra

This is a twelve day program for students moving into Year 12 who are thinking about a career in science, engineering and technology. More than a personal development occasion for young people  generally it overtly seeks to foster/ encourage the highest science achievers to continue in science. History notes that many of the past NYSF attendees have become leaders in their scientific speciality.

Rotary has been in partnership with the program since 1984 along with the Australian Government, major industry, national research institutes and universities and acts as the prime student selector and may in part or totally sponsor a student.

The process involves students making application in the proceeding June to specific rotary clubs, Hawthorn RC was such a recent recipient. The club screens these applicants passing on names of those suitable to the Rotary District 9800 committee which conducts interviews to further limit the number to their quota of about 20. The competition is tough, last year District had 100 or so to consider.

Hawthorn RC has selected a lass and forwarded her details to the District. Let's hope she does well.

The NYSF helps these potential science students, by giving them exposure to noted researchers and leading scientists, by encouraging the achievement of excellence in all their undertakings, and by helping to develop their communication and interpersonal skills. It also fosters discussion of, and interest in major national and global issues and emphasises the importance of maintaining continuing active interests in sport, arts and music.

The NYSF actually continues after January with a series of University and Industry Seminars and afterwards as a network of people with common aims.