Areg Mikaelyan, Director of Byurakan Observatory got familiarized with the government programme section on science and had the impressions that rather being a programme it was about standard formulations.
“The science section in the government programme is presented through standard formulations and this has always been the case with the previous cabinets as well. Not a single issue is outlined. Regretfully, I should admit, I see no specific actions planned in the sphere. Even the formulations put in the document are quite cautious one will never be able to hold them accountable for undelivered promises,” the scientist told Panorama during an interview.
In Mikayelyan’s words, while drafting the government programme, the concrete challenges should be outlined and the ways to address them. All the process should be coordinated and done with the involvement of scientists.
“It is natural that we all want to have an efficient science, want modern spheres to develop, likewise everyone wants. The question, however, is how to do that. My impression is that the science section of the government programme is filled for only not leaving the space vacant. The programme states it will work to create modern conditions for young scientists to work, yet the government programme envisages no funding for the sphere.”
“The primary issue of finding the science. that should be visible in the government programme. The development of any country is conditions with development of science, something we have still to realize,” added the scientist.
The Director of Byurakan Observatory added there was no need to invent a bike as the experience of developed countries and implemented programmes could serve as examples for our country with only relevant adjustments to the local context.