An overview of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy of Pakistan-A case study of developing countries

The role of Science, Technology and Innovation for the socio-ecomic development is now universally recognized. All areas of human activity are dependent upon S&T based solutions. However, the S&T based development is dependent upon sound policy formulation and implementation. The strong S&T policies (with proper implementation and investment in R&D) are responsible for the economic strength in the USA, rich European countries, Japan, South Korea, USSR, China and others. Pakistan has launched a new policy document in 2012 keeping in view the role of innovation as a central pillar for development. The vision of the policy is to achieve the security, prosperity and social cohesion of Pakistan through equitable and sustainable socio-economic progress using science, technology and innovation as central pillars of development in all sectors of economic activity. In the introductory part of this article, National Innovation System (NIS), and the process of S&T policy making in Pakistan is discussed along with other relevant details. The study presents a comprehensive overview and analysis of the policy focus areas including; the improvement of ST&I Planning and Management Structure, Human Resources, Indigenous Technology Development, Technology Transfer and the Creation of Absorptive Capacity, and International Cooperation. The study also explains the most important part of the policy document that provides policy recommendations for improvement in 16 major thrust areas including; Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Environment, Energy, Space Technology, Ocean Resources and others. Finally, in this article, special attention is paid to the financial, political, administrative, social and other issues dealing with the implementation of S&T policies in developing countries and some reasonable suggestions are provided for proper implementation.

کلیدواژه ها:

Science and Technology ، Policy Objectives ، Innovation ، Policy Options ، Research and Development