Phillip Paulwell

Science and technology minister, Phillip Paulwell says the government would be forging greater synergy between research institutions and the private sector in the development of local technologies.

Addressing a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) 'think tank' session, Paulwell said his ministry would be working closely with the research institutions, especially the University of the West Indies, University of Technology and Northern Caribbean University.

"In fact, I believe that a much more direct link will have to be established between the ministry and the universities and for us to have regular interactions because . we have to recognise that science must relate to economic development," said Paulwell. "Science is really the 'know what', technology is the 'know how' and when you combine both you will be able to drive industry much more effectively," he continued.

He said that the universities should be more oriented towards developing technologies that would contribute to economic activity, while the private sector needed to embrace technology for its survival.

"It is going to be impossible for us to survive without that preoccupation with higher learning, the development of science and the incorporation of technology into our businesses," he said.

Paulwell told JIS that to foster a greater spirit of co-operation between the tertiary institutions and the private sector, he would be holding a meeting with members of the private sector to inform them of the ministry's plan.

He noted that only a few Jamaican companies had science and technology (S&T) departments, but that it was important for businesses to recognised the importance of S&T in enhancing efficiency.

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