Samsung Canada recently announced the official launch of the 2018 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Challenge, a national education initiative that strives to empower Canadian students to discover a deeper passion for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-based learning by applying STEM to real-world challenges facing their communities.

Teachers of Canadian classrooms from Grades 6 to 12 can now enter the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Challenge until February 28, 2018.

Following the first phase of this year’s challenge, Samsung will award 50 Regional Finalist schools with Samsung technology kits, with four of the 50 schools moving on to phase two of the challenge to win one of four grand prize technology grants from Samsung valued at $20,000 each.

“Whether a wearable bracelet-sensory system that can translate sounds into vibrations for the hearing impaired, or a prototype water system that harnesses rain and snow to support and water a community’s rooftop garden, we continue to experience how technology can inspire Canadian students. We look forward to seeing the innovative solutions classrooms will develop using technology as a tool to make a difference in their community,” said Mark Childs, Chief Brand Officer, Samsung Canada.

Returning Ambassador Natalie Panek, an explorer, Forbes 30 Under 30 nominee, and Canadian rocket scientist currently working on the ExoMars rover project is excited by possible solutions that will be brought forward to the 2018 Solve for Tomorrow Challenge. “This program inspires young people to push the boundaries of discovery and to solve challenging problems using technology,” said Natalie Panek, Solve for Tomorrow Ambassador. “I am really excited to see what students and schools imagine and materialize in 2018!”

Also returning is Let’s Talk Science, a charitable youth development organization, which creates and delivers free STEM learning programs and services that support educators and strengthen student-learning outcomes.

This year’s challenge welcomes new partner Ontario Science Centre, bringing its expertise in innovative STEM-based education to Solve for Tomorrow by providing hands-on opportunities and events in its art-meets-science Inventorium space.

“Partnering with Samsung on its Solve for Tomorrow initiative was a natural fit for us,” said Maurice Bitran, CEO and Chief Science Officer, Ontario Science Centre. “Like Samsung, we recognize that tomorrow’s discoveries and innovations will be inspired by today’s students.” Bitran added, “In developing and applying the 21st-century learning skills, Solve for Tomorrow prepares students to lead fulfilling lives, be productive citizens and thrive in rapidly changing, global knowledge-based economies that are driven by technology.”

Good luck to all students competing this year from WhatsYourTech.ca!