Science, technology key to economic development
Malawi Government has said science and technology is important because it is central to production of goods and services and a driver of economic development.
Speaking during the official opening of this year’s National Science and Technology Fair at Chichiri Trade Fair Grounds in Blantyre, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology Vincent Ghambi said economies develop due to emphasis on science and technology because it is a driver of industrial development citing Japan, China, Singapore and South Korea.
“Industrial development will lead to economic development, poverty reduction and prosperity. Emphasis on science and technology will assist in achieving the country’s vision of transforming from a predominantly importing country to a predominantly exporting [ore]. Government is committed in science and technology as shown by its plans to establish science universities,” said Ghambi.
He added that government will instill a science and technology culture in Malawi pointing out that the private sector should also set aside some resources to use for research and development to develop new products and become competitive.
Speaking during the official opening, Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) president Newton Kambala said by officially opening the fair government was communicating to the world of the importance of science and technology to development.
He, however, pointed out that based on reports Malawi is not ready to generate ideas and acquire technology, but applauded government for recognising the importance of science and technology by setting up Malawi University of Science and Technology (Must).
“Malawi mostly exports raw materials and to improve this we need a high rate of science and technology in our export mix,” said Kambala noting that this is why the economy’s exports are subject to volatile prices.
This year’s fair, which runs from October 22-24 is themed Science and Technology: Turning ideas into wealth and has attracted 14 exhibitors including Chancellor College, Must, TNM, Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) and TechnoBrain.
