Monday, November 14, 2011

Government commits to prioritising science and technology

Government commits to prioritising science and technology
By Brina Manenga
Mon 14 Nov. 2011, 14:00 CAT

EDUCATION minister Dr John Phiri says prioritisation of science and technology is essential for the country's social and economic development. Speaking at the 9th National Science and Technology forum on Friday, Dr Phiri said the PF government was in a hurry and committed to finding a solution to the social and economic challenges facing the country.

"Chemists will inevitably play a key role in overcoming the challenges facing the world today, for example, in helping address the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). A deep understanding of science is essential for developing molecular medicine, for creating new materials and sustainable sources of food and energy," Dr Phiri said.

He said the government's commitment to prioritising science and technology was evident in the funding of various scientific and technological institutions.

Dr Phiri however said his ministry was hoping to see tangible results for improvement of people's lives from the funded institutions.

He encouraged the science community to carry out relevant research and innovations that would help resolve the many socio-economic challenges facing Zambia.

Dr Phiri said there was need for science and technology to be fostered in school if the sector was to be sustained.

"The picture in schools regarding science and technology is pathetic. There are no laboratories while other laboratories have been turned into classrooms. This is something that needs to change. And my government will work hard to ensure that this issue is dealt with," said Dr Phiri.

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Saturday, January 23, 2010

(LUSAKATIMES) Let’s unlock Zambia’s scientific potential for development – Chituwo

Zambia: Let’s unlock Zambia’s scientific potential for development – Chituwo

Minister of Science Brian Chituwo says there is need to unlock the scientific potential that exist in Zambia and translate it into short and long term economic benefit in the country.

Dr. Chitwo said there is need to reposition scientific initiatives and venture into an innovation-led economy which will be driven by a highly skilled, creative and competitive work force in the country.

He said in order to carry out such a transformation, there is need to have a lot of researchers, scientists and engineers.

He said this in a speech read for him by his Deputy Crispin Musosha at the Youth Inventors Fund and Strategic Researcher Fund, Grant and awards giving ceremony held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka today.

Dr. Chituwo said government will continue to provide an enabling platform for this transformation through various initiatives and funding for scientific research and innovation.

He added that this why government has developed the strategies research and youth inventors funds, which are under his ministry.

He pointed out that the common goal of these funds is to promote science and technology innovations and development in the country.

Dr. Chituwo noted that the two funds should address the challenges of developing a new generation of researchers, inventors and engineers working on matters of national relevance.

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