Students Win Top Titles in the Euro Challenge Canada Competition

Students Win Top Titles in the Euro Challenge Canada Competition
Posted on 05/18/2022
Students Win Top Titles in the Euro Challenge Canada Competition

Students from Canterbury High School and John McCrae Secondary School earned top prizes at the Inaugural Euro Challenge Canada Competition, where they presented ideas for solutions to international economic challenges. 


This was the first time that the competition, hosted by WISE - Working in Support of Education, has taken place in Canada. Grade 9-10 students were invited to learn about economics and the European Union (EU) by selecting an economy-related challenge and analyzing it through the lens of one EU country. Students then did a 15-minute presentation recommending policies to address that challenge, followed by a Q&A session with a panel of judges.


Five OCDSB teams competed at the Ottawa Art Gallery, representing Canterbury High School, Colonel By Secondary School, Earl of March Secondary School, Glebe Collegiate Institute, John McCrae Secondary School, Merivale High School, Nepean High School, and West Carleton Secondary School. 


Many of the students were part of the OCDSB International Certificate Program, which is designed to recognize and honour students in grade 9-12 who demonstrate a commitment to being motivated, engaged and active global citizens. The event counted toward their hours of international experience and engagement.


Canterbury High School students won first prize, presenting on the topic of Climate Change and "Going Green," with a focus on Germany. Congratulations to Aashi V., Dorsa S., Jaz H., Olivia P., and Shaela L.! 


The competition took weeks to prepare for, and the students rose to the challenge with teamwork and cooperation. They began by focusing on personal development and familiarizing themselves with economic terms and concepts; then, they set up in-person and online meetings to prepare as a team. The students combined their perspectives and ideas into a concise and effective script. They also “prepared for the unexpected” by practicing possible questions and answers for the judges’ Q&A. Reflecting on their learning experience, the team said:

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There are several important skills and concepts that we learned from having taken part in this competition. Firstly, we learned a lot about how economic indicators relate to each other. This experience also expanded our horizons, helping us explore fields of work that were applied. Secondly, we learned many things about the Euro Area and European Union, including the relationship between euro countries and how this affects economic progress. Thirdly, this opportunity allowed us to improve our speaking and teamwork skills, as we were required to give a professional presentation as a team. Prioritizing information in order to present within the given time limit was an additional challenge that we were given an opportunity to work on. Finally, we learned a significant amount about climate change and the impact it has on our planet, as well as how we can help lead the charge, as Canterbury Chargers (pun!).
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John McCrae Secondary School students earned second place for their presentation on Inequality, Social Mobility and the Gender Gap, with a focus on Lithuania. Here’s what they had to say about their experience:

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Euro Challenge was a great opportunity for me to learn and improve my knowledge of European economics and economics in general. I can't wait to see it expand in Canada!

- Sam M.

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Euro Challenge introduced me to economics, which turns out, I actually love! Additionally, it provided me with an opportunity to expand my knowledge and research skills.

- Jill R.

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Euro challenge allowed me to explore my interest in Foreign policy, the EU, and economics. It also gave me the chance to meet leaders in the field!

- Abby L.

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The Canterbury team received awards of $1,200, and the John McCrae students were awarded $1,000 each for their accomplishments. This event was made possible by support from the EU Delegation to Canada and the generous sponsorship of Moody's Corporation. Congratulations to both teams, and well done to all of the teams who participated!

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