Alyaksandr Lukashenka on Tuesday decided in a narrow circle to discuss a draft decree on the financing of science. The document was prepared after a November meeting at which Lukashenka sharply criticized scientists.
The heads of the National Academy of Sciences, the Lukashenka administration, the State Control Committee, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, as well as a deputy prime minister were invited to the meeting.
Lukashenka stressed that in November, from the report by the chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences, Uladzimir Karanik, he did not hear how science would develop.
“At that time, a number of old and new issues were raised. Unfortunately, there was nothing new in Vladimir Stepanovich’s speech either about development or, perhaps, reforming and modernizing our Academy of Sciences. But we agreed that we would prepare a draft decree on improving scientific activity in general, and that you would submit this draft decree for consideration,” Lukashenka said, according to his press service.
He recalled that he was ready to pay scientists only for results.
“After familiarizing myself with the draft decree, I have had quite a few questions. And I would like to discuss these questions with you. But then, at that meeting, we agreed that if we are talking about money, about payment, then there is one mechanism — to pay for results. There is a result — we pay. There is no result — there will be no money. No matter how our undoubtedly intelligent scientists may present this issue,” he said.
Judging by Lukashenka’s remarks, he is not fully satisfied with the draft.
“So far, not very much is clearly visible: basic funding and opportunities for scientists to teach at universities. Well, who is against that? No one is against it. And today, in my opinion, this process is developing successfully. But what about efficiency, the results of scientific activity? Here there are referral norms, as lawyers say: ‘This will be determined by the government.’ So why are we then submitting a draft decree?
The draft decree must be complete and comprehensive. And there should be no referral norms. So that people who will be interested in this decree, first of all scientists, understand what it is about and how much it will cost,” he continued.
Lukashenka emphasized that all issues facing the National Academy of Sciences must be resolved before the congress of scientists.
“Who, why, how much and for what reason is proposing this draft decree? The most important thing: what do you want, what is needed? There was enough time to sort this out. You are a smart, experienced person. I am sure you have sorted it out,” he said, addressing Karanik.