PattersonPRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson is leading an initiative to have science and technology (S&T) development and application play a greater role in economic expansion, the stimulation of growth and the creation of employment.
Mr. Patterson told private sector leaders on the second day of their joint retreat with the Government in Montego Bay yesterday that the National Commission on Science and Technology (NCST), which he chairs, needs to be empowered to act as the catalyst for innovation-based business expansion in Jamaica. "The solution resides in how a partnership can be established between the NCST and by extension the entire science and technology community, and the private sector to build a sound knowledge base which can serve both productive and social purposes on which our economy can be inexorably founded," Mr. Patterson said while introducing the discussion on science and technology.
Declaring that science and technology was a strategic resource underpinning economic growth, the Prime Minister called for greater private sector funding for the National Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology, which was established to source and provide financing in support for S&T activities.
Funding is required to develop science and technology throughout the country, Mr. Patterson said, adding that emphasis should be placed on developing projects that deliver value-added products utilising the intrinsic human qualities and culture of our people. The focus, he noted, should be related to food, agricultural products, music and information technology, highlighting innovation. He added: "The National Commission on Science and Technology offers a credible way to build a purposeful S&T infrastructure, which will serve all Jamaica, in both local economic endeavours, as well as in encouraging foreign investments."
PATTERSON
