Science literacy cornerstone of economy: Minister Rai

By A Staff Reporter, Lalitpur, Sept. 19: Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Ashok Kumar Rai, has emphasised that the Constitution of Nepal has given top priority to safeguarding and advancing scientific, technical, and intellectual talents. This highlights the pivotal role of science and technology in the nation’s development.

Addressing the 11th National Science Day, themed “Science Literacy and Entrepreneurship are the cornerstones of a strong economy”, Minister Rai affirmed the government’s dedication. He stated that the government was fully committed to acknowledging science and technology as essential catalysts for production and development, emphasising a substantial increase in state investments in this sector.

The government has set aside a budget of Rs 1 billion for research and innovation in the current fiscal year. Minister Rai said, “I want to inform you that the ministry, with the collaboration of stakeholders, is currently in the process of finalising the draft bill to establish the legal framework for research and innovation, which will enable the effective operation of this fund.” 

He expressed his confidence that this step will bring a significant transformation in the fields of science, technology, and innovation once the legal framework for research and innovation is in place.

The slogan for this year’s Science Day underscores the enduring significance of scientific literacy as the foundation for sustainable economic development. The Science Day aims to emphasise the significance of science and technology. The government aims to raise awareness among the general public and communities, while also nurturing scientists and emerging talents through the promotion of studies, research, and investigative pursuits, Minister Rai said.

Accordingly, the 16th Plan places particular emphasis on the science, technology, and innovation sectors. It aims to bolster Nepal’s industrial and business sectors promptly to enhance economic empowerment, with a focus on increasing production and productivity through the application of science, technology, and innovation in critical areas such as agriculture, forestry, energy, industry, tourism, and more, he added.

Speaking at the programme, Secretary at the Ministry, Suresh Adhikary, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to enhance productivity in both the industrial and agricultural sectors through research and technology development. He mentioned that the ministry is currently implementing innovative programmes like technology testing and technology certification this year, with the expectation that these initiatives will foster entrepreneurship.

During the programme, several individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of Science and Technology were recognised and awarded. The awardees included Dr. Ramhari Chapagain, Chief Consultant Paediatrician at Kanti Children’s Hospital; Roshni Lakshmi Tuitui, Chief Nursing Administrator at Kanti Children’s Hospital; Dr. Gaurav Parmar, Scientist Authorised, National Botanical Garden, Godavari, Lalitpur; Dr. Kiran Gautam, C.D.E. Secretariat of Water and Power Commission; and Dr. Suchita Shrestha, C.D.G, Mines and Geology Department, National Science.

Similarly Dr. Ram Bahadur Khadka, Scientist, National Pediatrics Research Centre; Prof. Janardhan Lamichhane, Dean, School of Science, Kathmandu University; Dr. Rajit Ojha, Department of Water and Sewerage Management; Dr. Gan Bahadur Bajracharya, Chief Scientist Officer, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology; Radharaman Jha from Rapti Gyanodaya Secondary School, Rukum West, Indira Aryal, Journalist of The Rising Nepal, Shyam Badan Shrestha of Nepal Nutcraft Center Pvt. Ltd.; and Rabin Shrestha of the Everest Fashion.

The award includes a cash prize along with a certificate to acknowledge and reward the recipients for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields.