Celebrating National Science Day: Nepal Govt Allocates 1 Billion Rupees for Scientific Advancement
Kathmandu, September 18, 2023 - In an unprecedented move to bolster scientific research and innovation in the country, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has allocated a 1-billion-rupee budget for the establishment of a separate fund. This initiative comes as part of Nepal’s annual National Science Day, celebrated on Ashoj 1 to commemorate the founding of the Amrit Science Campus (ASCOL).
Legislative Push for Research and Innovation
Joint Secretary Vishwababu Pudasaini disclosed that the ministry has prepared a bill with legal provisions tailored for research and innovation. "This will be a transformative step for the scientific community in Nepal," said Pudasaini. Additionally, the Ministry aims to introduce the National Forensic Science Laboratory Bill and Chemical Substances Management Bills to Parliament this year.
Strategic Partnerships and Agreements
Notably, diplomatic efforts are underfoot with China and Sri Lanka to strengthen cooperation in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. A formal agreement is slated to be signed during the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to China.
STEM Education and Competitions
To cultivate a new generation of innovators, the Ministry has initiated programs focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Last year's STEM competition saw participation from 9 university groups, attracting 6,000 public school students to a one-day exhibition.
National Innovation Center and Research Grants
A noteworthy grant of Rs 1 crore was allocated to the National Innovation Center for research activities in the last financial year. This grant helped support research in various scientific fields like nanotechnology, material science, and biotechnology. Additionally, professional bodies like the Plant Protection Society and Chemical Society Nepal received grant support for publishing journals.
Embracing Artificial Intelligence
Pudasaini also revealed that a policy on artificial intelligence will be drafted this year. This policy aims to utilize emerging technology to improve work efficiency in both the private and public sectors.
Integrated Information System
An advanced integrated information system will connect research institutions, universities, and government agencies. This database will serve as a centralized hub for science and technology development in Nepal.
Preservation of Traditional Knowledge
The Ministry is also focusing on the preservation of traditional knowledge through a digital library. This initiative aims to catalog and protect indigenous technologies and skills, often referred to as 'Raithane' technology.
Future Plans and Initiatives
Grant support is also planned for National Centers of Excellence to conduct high-impact research in specialized fields. Furthermore, the development of additional observatories and science parks is in progress through the BP Koirala Memorial Planetarium, Observatory, and Expert Museum Development Committee.
By focusing on comprehensive growth in science and technology, Nepal is taking a giant leap toward becoming a global leader in innovation and research. These planned programs are set to drive a paradigm shift in the scientific landscape of the nation.
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