adminSifelani Tsiko Harare Bureau
THE scientific research community must take practical steps to simplify biotechnology to draw heightened interest and increase the level of interaction between itself and legislators, a cabinet minister says.Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Dr Olivia Muchena, told legislators at a one-day workshop on biotechnology awareness in Harare yesterday that an important part of the process of scientific research that was often overlooked was that of simplifying science knowledge so that it could be understood by all.
“There is a whole difference between trying to convince people politically and scientifically,” she said. “The benefits of biotechnology can be used by society only when presented in a language understood by many. Scientists must communicate research results in local languages.
“If we fail to communicate our research results in our own local languages then something is not right.”
The National Biotechnology Authority (NBA) organised the workshop to sensitise lawmakers on the importance of biotechnology as a vehicle for socio-economic development.
Speaking on the vital role of science and technology in the country’s development, Dr Muchena said countries that had been successful are those that have placed a high premium on the study of science and technology in their schools and universities as well as promoting among the people.
“We should consider translations of scientific terms and results into local languages to promote the understanding of science among our people,” she said.
“Simplifying science can enhance public interaction and at least give legislators some working knowledge to enable them to participate effectively in biotechnology debates.”
She pointed out that harmonising relations between scientists, lawmakers and policy makers would make them active partners in scientific development which was key to avoiding exclusion and marginalisation. Dr Muchena commended the NBA for organising the workshop as an endeavour to develop love for biotechnology issues among the legislators as well as highlighting the crucial role played by biotechnology in the development of national economy.
“Biotechnology provides opportunities for realising Zim- Asset goals by creating employment through biotechno-preneurship,” she said. “For example, in biodiesel production, a number of enterprises can be developed such as soap making or cosmetics such as aloe vera gel.”
Zimbabwe, in its Second Science, Technology and Innovation Policy released in March 2012 identified biotechnology as one of the most promising tools that can help increase food productivity, enhance health and wellness of society and boost manufacturing output.
The country established the NBA in 2006 through an Act of Parliament to regulate research, transport, import, manufacture, safe handling and use of organisms and products of modern biotechnology.
Online Reporter