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KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology organised a programme to mark the 11th National Science Day today.
Chief Guest Minister for Education, Science and Technology Ashok Kumar Rai, inaugurated the main ceremony programme. Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University (KU) Bhola Thapa was also present on the occasion.
On the occasion, 'Bigyan Smarika' was formally launched at the programme.
Joint Secretary of the ministry, Bishwo Babu Pudasaini gave a welcome address. He laid emphasis on science and technology to develop the country. He stressed the development of the technology sector to develop the country. He mentioned that we have not been able to use technology for entrepreneurship development and said, "The focus should be on how we can utilise technology to boost the economy. He added, "It is time we start focusing on science and technology."
Likewise, KU Vice-Chancellor Thapa in his keynote address said the KU has been trying to focus on science and technology to develop the country's economy. He briefed the history of KU relating to science. "The first programme we launched when KU was formed from Kathmandu Valley Campus was Intermediate of Science (ISc), he said. The first decade was spent in opening schools and colleges to make KU recognised. In the second decade, we focused on research since it is not only about teaching and learning but also innovation. Research is significant to drive innovation which in turn contributes to economic prosperity and social development.
The KU Vice-Chancellor Thapa described academic programmes, specialised research labs — without which it is not possible to develop science and technology — and research funding as the three pillars important for research. "After getting international funding from Asia League, we held talks with the Government of Norway and launched a project, and focused on managing research. Our research funding was for colleges so that there would be competition which is vital for further innovation and growth." "We wanted our research to be linked with industrial development but we did not want to compete with industries," he asserted and added, "We are now in the process of launching a business incubation centre to enhance innovation."
The programme included a prize distribution ceremony by Minister for Education, Science and Technology Rai.
Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Vice Chancellor Dilip Subba said that science and technology are practically related to all sectors. He said, "Science education is important for entrepreneurship development and economic growth. The economy is necessary for livelihoods, so we must link science and technology with entrepreneurship development." Subba stressed that there has to be research and development for innovation. "Without innovation how are we going to prosper or have an international impact?" he questioned.
Minister Rai congratulated all those who received prizes and hoped for more contribution from them.
National Science Day has been observed since 2069 BS so as to make the people aware of the development of science and technology in the country. It is also to fete those who have made substantial contributions to this sector. The theme of National Science Day this year is 'Science Literacy and Entrepreneurship: Foundation for Strong Economy.'
Minister Rai said, "Science and technology are very important for innovation and entrepreneurship development. We have organised various programmes to celebrate this day." The ministry has set up a fund of Rs 1 billion for research and development. "We believe this will play an important role in research and development which will help the country prosper," said Minister Rai.
The government believes that science and technology will contribute to the country's economy. We will be implementing programmes for this purpose. It is time we start focusing on science and technology or we will lag behind. We must utilise science and technology to sustainably use our natural resources for long-term economic growth. It is important to encourage youths in science and technology so that they become innovators and become self-employed or provide employment to others. The government is planning to set up educational institutions so as to boost study and research in science and technology.
