Akylbek Zhaparov: Science and innovation should become engines of economic development

Bishkek, Nov. 28, 2022. /Kabar/. Science is a national resource, the main source of economic development. Akylbek Zhaparov, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers said at a general meeting at the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic. He noted that the Cabinet of Ministers aims to consider the areas of science, education, innovation as priority areas and work to ensure that they become engines of economic development. “Certainly, little financial resources are allocated to science. Unfortunately, for 3 decades of independence of the country, an important direction as a science has been left without attention. Last year, the Academy of Sciences was allocated 311.5 million soms, this year - 479.2 million soms, next year we provide 524.4 million soms. For 2 years, the President increased the budget of the organization by 187.5 million soms. The country's leadership is ready to allocate 1% of GDP, in case of high efficiency of scientific workers,” said Akylbek Zhaparov. The head of the cabinet of ministers continued that the state is ready to invest in projects, start-ups, scientific research that will contribute to the development of the domestic economy. He noted the importance of identifying 4-5 priority areas for the Academy of Sciences, attracting and supporting young scientists under 45, increasing activity in patenting, completely updating obsolete laboratories, and working to ensure the return of funds allocated from the budget.