The provincial government has launched a new scholarship program to commemorate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in Newfoundland and Labrador.

One-hundred one-time scholarships, valued at $1,000 each, will be awarded to girls in grades 10 through 12.

Government says the program will help support the leadership development and post-secondary goals of young women.

The scholarship will be based on three criteria: community contributions and leadership potential, demonstrated passion or initiative for leadership, and academic performance.

Women and Gender Equality Minister Pam Parsons hopes that the scholarship will go beyond finances for those who apply.

She hopes the students will think about the rights that women didn’t have years ago. She says the initiative highlights the past and the history, and that is how they will progress into the future.

The deadline to apply is October 31. The scholarships will be awarded in January.