Promoting Science and Technology from the Top

Abstract

Governments in developing countries are the primary source of resources and guidance for science and technology (S&T). Despite an apparent recognition of the importance of S&T for socioeconomic growth and poverty reduction (as shown by a modicum of investment), the full benefits of S&T have not been achieved. Chief among the reasons for this are (i) lack of political vision and will, (ii) low business confidence in S&T and innovation, (iii) imprecise decision-making and archaic management, (iv) suboptimal investments, (v) national inertia and illiteracy, (vi) puerile dependency, (vii) a lack of imagination, and (viii) corruption. S&T are tools that motivate, propel, and dictate change, which often demands incisive administrative management and cultural shifts of varying degrees. S&T may threaten ministries jostling for power. Furthermore, bureaucracy is steeped in the orthodoxy of seniority and political favoritism and tends to be uncritically rigid and suspicious of fresh intellectual talent. Changes in management structures and methods, decision-making, implementation, and reviews of effectiveness and coordination are often stoutly resisted. Consequently, national S&T management bodies and coordinating systems that are installed to implement policies and execute plans often prove ineffectual. Strong political leadership at the top of the S&T structure is needed. Prime ministers or presidents should take charge. The decision to have prime ministers or presidents lead the knowledge transfiguration of a country will circumvent unnecessary layers of government, while quelling political rivalries. Additionally, the private sector needs assurance and accessible incentives from government to support research and development (R&D) and thereby create new businesses, jobs, and skills. The top levels of government must make the necessary budgetary decisions to support local R&D, which has, until now, been left to the whims and fancies of foreign technical assistance and investment. It is very difficult for ministers of finance and other cabinet officers to allocate funds to seemingly intangible S&T development when there is pressure on the budget to satisfy immediate and pressing needs like education, health care, and roads. Science and technology courses specifically designed to educate top political leaders regarding the long-term benefits are therefore necessary. The ultimate challenge is to convince busy prime ministers and presidents to take charge of these efforts. This is where national S&T advisors are vital.