The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development:

Speaker, last week I was proud to join students and families to celebrate the 2026 Research Inspired Student Enrichment Awards.

The RISE Awards recognize 20 outstanding Level II students from across Newfoundland and Labrador who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

I would like to recognize the 2026 RISE Award recipients. They are Moroti Adegboyega, Maira Ahmad, Kawthar Alakhdar, Natalie Beh, Vidya Tanmayi Chedella, Cora Clark, Lucia Chen, Anna Corbett, Ava Decker, Alex Fry, Joyeeta Goyali, Allison Gregory, James Hand, Emily Janes, Nandini Kapoor, Diana Medan, Ella Sooley, Melody Tang, Ariana White and Joseph Ye.

These students will take part in world‑class enrichment opportunities that expand their skills and help shape their future career paths. Programs like RISE help prepare young people for opportunities in high-demand, future-focused fields.

Newfoundland and Labrador has a growing culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. The skills these students are developing align directly with the needs of our evolving economy.

And Speaker, to the students being recognized – Newfoundland and Labrador is proud of you. You are future researchers, innovators and leaders who will help shape a strong and bright future for Newfoundland and Labrador.