The Ministry of Science and Technology has decided to develop specialised laboratories in research and educational institutions, in which senior researchers would have their own specialised labs and researchers. “A balance between basic and applied research would be developed to help encourage the creation of new knowledge and marketable technologies. Expatriate Pakistani engineers and scientists would be encouraged to work in national research and educational institutions,” Pakistan Council of Science and Technology (PCST) Chairperson Dr Mudasar Asrar said on Thursday.
“An attractive salary package would be offered, along with research facilities, she said. Scientists and engineers would be encouraged by awarding prizes for their achievements annually,” she added.
Dr Mudasar said a list covering all scientific disciplines ranging from natural sciences to physical sciences would be developed to encourage professionals in all scientific disciplines including a Natural Sciences Prize, Technological Invention Prize, Science and Technology Progress Prize, and an International Science and Technology Cooperation Prize. The PCST chairperson said techno-entrepreneurship was lacking in national research and educational institutions. The main constraint in its development was the reluctance of individuals and private sector to take the risk, she said, adding that this could be promoted by sharing the risk.
The ministry has been planning to establish Technology Incubation and Business Development centres in research and educational institutions to promote applied research and provide a platform for young entrepreneurs. Dr Mudasar said an attractive career would be offered to scientists and engineers by offering Special Pay Scales or Tenure Track System in research and educational institutions.
