June 22, 2016
Earl of Wessex Honours Gold Level Duke of Edinburgh Award Recipients
– – –Manitoba Students Will Have Opportunity to Earn Credits for Participation in the Program in Upcoming School Year: Wishart
His Royal Highness, the Earl of Wessex, today honoured 54 Manitoba students for their participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Education and Training Minister Ian Wishart announced today.
“The Manitoba government is honoured Prince Edward could be in Winnipeg today to recognize the achievements of these 54 outstanding young Manitobans,” said Wishart. “This program helps students develop self-confidence and empathy for others. The value of that experience at a community level cannot be understated.”
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a flexible, non-competitive, voluntary program for young people aged 14 to 24. The program encourages young people to develop positive skills and lifestyle habits, perform community services and participate in physical activities.
Participants are able to progress through three levels (bronze, silver and gold) of increasing commitment and effort. Upon completion of each level, participants receive a pin and certificate to mark their achievement.
The 54 students recognized at a ceremony held at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada today have all achieved the highest possible level. The gold awards are only presided over by the Governor General of Canada or a member of the Royal Family.
Wishart today also announced the hours accumulated by participants through community service, cultural exploration and physical activities as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program may be used to fulfil course requirements for the 2016-17 school year.
“I encourage students to talk to their school guidance counsellors or principals about this valuable educational experience,” said Wishart. “The associated benefits of participation are many including increased self-esteem and maturity, awareness of the needs of others in the community, and a greater understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.”
In 2014, 1,357 Manitoba students actively participated in the program including 384 who joined for the first time and 105 Manitoba students who completed it. For more information about the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, go to www.dukeofed.org/about-duke-of-edinburgh.
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