News & Events in Belarus
Lukashenko: There is no future without science
MINSK, 13 November (BelTA) - Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko challenged the leadership of the scientific community to outline its future path and strategy for development as he heard a report from Chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus Vladimir Karanik on 13 November, BelTA has learned.
“I am primarily interested in improving the performance of the Academy of Sciences. Why did we replace the chairman of the Academy of Sciences? So that things would get better. It was time to sort out the situation. I am sure you, too, had previously been immersed in matters concerning the Academy's work. So, what is your vision? How do we move forward? I have said many times that there is no future without science. That's the nature of our time,” the head of state said.
According to Aleksandr Lukashenko, questions are being raised once again about strengthening the accountability of clients for scientific research and innovations, and about the connection between production and science in general. “There is such a matter. It will always be there,” the head of state said. “Previously, it sounded like this: ‘We have invented something, but industry, agriculture, transport, or someone else doesn’t want to take it. Just take a look, we have invented a great marvel and they don’t want to take it’.”
In this regard, the president emphasized that the final word should lie with the head of the Academy of Sciences. He must study what a given institute of the National Academy of Sciences is offering to a specific enterprise and make a decision. The responsibility will also lie with him. “If you push through a solution that is unviable, we will see it immediately. We will see it in practice. You will be held accountable for it. If the decision you make truly brings benefits, then [the rewards will vary] from state awards to financial incentives,” the head of state said. “Therefore, there is no need to discuss and raise the issue here of who wants it and who doesn’t. Besides, you are not far: pick up the phone, call me – a decision will be made instantly. We will figure out who can do what and who cannot.”
Vladimir Karanik reported that his main task, which he directs all scientists towards, is to develop what is in demand by the real sector of the economy, rather than trying to push on them whatever they have managed to create.
Aleksandr Lukashenko supported this position. “That is correct. Absolutely,” he said.
“If a development is successful and proves to be highly sought-after, then that is commendable. Because science should still be a step ahead of our practice and even our consciousness. Therefore, we must look at the result of this invention,” the president added.
In turn, Vladimir Karanik noted that the Academy of Sciences is already “turning to face the real sector of the economy”. “Everyone is noting that the level of interaction with specific enterprises has sharply increased. This applies to BNBC, dairy processing plants, and the agro-industrial sector. It is encouraging that they are already starting to approach us,” said the head of the National Academy of Sciences.
The president pointed out that the main thing is for scientists to be able to respond to these requests from the real sector effectively, productively, and beneficially. “The interest [from the enterprises] will be significant, because, as you can see, the pressure from my side, and from the ministers, from the government, is intensifying. Officials will be scrambling left and right to deliver solid, tangible results,” the head of state emphasized.
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