SuperNOVA: Empowering Youth Through STEM Education Across Atlantic Canada
SuperNOVA, a non-profit organization based at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a network member of Actua, has gained widespread recognition for providing high-quality STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) programming across Atlantic Canada. Founded in 1996, SuperNOVA provides hands-on learning experiences for youth from grades P-12, with a particular focus on underserved and historically excluded communities. By breaking down barriers to education, SuperNOVA ensures that youth from all backgrounds have access to high-quality STEM programming.
A Vision for Accessible and Inclusive Education
SuperNOVA’s mission is clear: to empower youth through educational experiences in STEM that cultivate curiosity and an attitude for lifelong learning, regardless of geographic location, socio-economic situation, ability, gender, or lived experience.
Through extensive outreach programming, SuperNOVA aims to make STEM education accessible to all, particularly in rural, remote, First Nations, and low-income communities throughout Atlantic Canada. Collaborating with schools, community groups, and Indigenous organizations, SuperNOVA delivers nearly all of its programs—94% in 2023—free of charge. These include summer camps, in-school workshops, teacher training, and specialized programs designed to inspire and educate.
Bringing STEM to Underserved Communities Across Atlantic Canada
SuperNOVA’s dedication to community outreach in rural and remote areas of Atlantic Canada is a cornerstone of its success. The organization prioritizes delivering programming in a safe and familiar environment, sending teams directly into communities to provide in-person STEM education. This approach ensures that youth can engage with STEM subjects where they feel most comfortable, making the learning experience accessible, relevant, and empowering.
In 2023 alone, SuperNOVA reached more than 27,500 youth and visited 36 communities across Atlantic Canada, continuing its mission to bridge gaps in education and bring STEM to places where opportunities might otherwise be limited.
Programs Tailored for Impact
SuperNOVA’s programs are designed to engage youth at various age levels with activities that are both fun and educational. For younger participants, this might mean interactive science experiments or beginner coding exercises using robotics. Older participants may dive into more complex topics, such as artificial intelligence, engineering challenges, or environmental science. Programming also highlights real-world applications of STEM through mentorship and site visits with industry professionals, further inspiring youth to pursue STEM post-secondary education and career paths.
The organization’s dedication to reaching underserved communities has led to the development of several standout initiatives. The ACES (Atlantic Clean Energy Stewards) program introduces students in grades 3-8 to clean energy options, while the ODP (Ocean Data Project) is an initiative developed in partnership with First Nations communities to provide opportunities for Indigenous youth to learn about the ocean and climate change through a sense of place, empowering them to develop a critical understanding of climate change in their local environment.
SuperNOVA also works with Indigenous partners, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers to provide land-based education programming. These programs centre community priorities and educational goals through land-based activities that provide Indigenous students with opportunities to explore STEM through a lens that integrates Western science with Traditional Knowledge.
One of SuperNOVA’s outreach activities includes visiting various communities in rural Labrador, bringing free, high-quality STEM education, camps, and workshops to youth living there, helping participants gain confidence and skills in areas where they may have previously felt excluded.
Supporting Educators and the Future of STEM
Recognizing the pivotal role teachers play in engaging youth in STEM, SuperNOVA also offers professional development opportunities for educators. By equipping teachers with the tools and knowledge needed to inspire students, SuperNOVA ensures the impact of its programs extends far beyond the classroom.
SuperNOVA’s staff undergo robust training and certification, ensuring they are fully prepared to deliver inclusive, impactful STEM education. This commitment to training extends to the broader community, helping to foster a culture of education and innovation.
STEM Education for All
SuperNOVA at Dalhousie University continues to play a vital role in advancing STEM education across Atlantic Canada, particularly for underrepresented and marginalized groups. SuperNOVA is also a network member of Actua, a leading Canadian science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) youth outreach organization. Each year, the network engages over 375,000 youth in 600 communities across Canada in transformative STEM learning experiences that build critical skills and confidence.
By providing hands-on, engaging programs that inspire youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, SuperNOVA is paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future.
