Lukashenko on the NAS: without science nowhere, the times are like this now
The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, raises questions before the leadership of the scientific sphere about how and where it will move forward in its development. This was stated by the head of state while receiving a report from the Chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences, Vladimir Karanik, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"I am primarily interested in improving the activities of the Academy of Sciences. Why did we replace the chairman of the Academy of Sciences - to make it better. There was time to understand the situation. And you, I am sure, were already immersed in the work of the Academy of Sciences before. So what do you see, how will we move forward? I have said many times that without science, we cannot go anywhere. The time is such now," noted the head of state.
Alexander Lukashenko pointed out that questions are again being raised about strengthening the responsibility of customers for scientific research, innovations, and in general about the connection between production and science. "There is such a topic. It will always be there," the head of state stated. "Earlier, this topic sounded like this: 'We invented it, but industry or agriculture, or transport, or someone else does not want to take it. Look, a great miracle has been invented - they do not want to take it.'
In this regard, the President emphasized that the final word should be with the head of the Academy of Sciences. He must study what a particular institute of the NAS offers to a specific enterprise and make a decision. But the responsibility will also be on him. "If you impose a decision that is unviable, we will see it right away. We will see it in action. You will bear responsibility for this. If the decision you made truly brings benefits, then - from state awards to financial incentives," said the head of state. "Therefore, this question should not be discussed and raised here about whether someone wants it or not. And then, you are not far away: pick up the phone, call me - the decision will be made instantly. And we will figure out who can do what and who cannot."
Vladimir Karanik reported that the main task he is orienting all scientists towards is to develop what is demanded by the real sector of the economy, rather than trying to impose what has been achieved on them.
Alexander Lukashenko supported this position. "This is correct. Absolutely," he said.
"If something has been achieved and it will be in high demand, well, thank you. Because science must always be a step ahead of our practice and even our consciousness. Therefore, we need to look at the result of this invention," the President added.
For his part, Vladimir Karanik noted that the Academy of Sciences is already "turning its face to the real sector of the economy." "Everyone notes that the level of interaction with specific enterprises has sharply increased. This applies to both the BNBK and dairy processing enterprises, as well as the agro-industrial sector. It is gratifying that they are already starting to reach out to us," said the head of the NAS.
On this matter, the President pointed out: the main thing is that scientists can effectively, productively, and beneficially respond to requests from the real sector of the economy. "There will be great interest (from enterprises. - Note from BELTA), because you see: the pressure from my side, and from the ministers and the government is increasing. And officials will be running into different gaps to achieve a good real effect," emphasized the head of state.