Prime Minister Prachanda addressed the 46th Academic Assembly of NAST in Baluwatar on Thursday. (Photo: Pradeep Raj Onta)
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that the state has not focused attention on the development of science and technology, yet.
Prachanda, who is also the Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), said so while addressing the 46th Academic Assembly in Baluwatar on Thursday.
"The attention of the state has not yet been focused on science and technology, I direct them to work hand in hand for the transformation of the country in line with the suggestions and advice of academics and the bill on science, technology and innovation," he said.
He said that as he is also a student of science, he is not unaware of the ability and contribution of Nepali scientific experts in the field of science and technology.
"If there is a clear concept paper, the government will take appropriate initiatives for cooperation", he said, "Therefore, I request scientists to be aware of preparing project proposals that cover the needs of the country,” Dahal further said.
Dahal further said that although the science, technology and promotional works done with a total budget of 4 billion in 40 years are commendable, they are still not enough.
"In the course of entering the space age, the government has already launched a NANO satellite through NAST,” said Dahal, “It is a pleasure to know that scientists have come together in collaboration with other organizations, including young scientists, in preparation for launching the Munal satellite in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
.
