The science sector is in for an overhaul after being described by its minister, Judith Collins, as not fit for purpose.
Responding to concerns last week that funding for the decade-long National Science Challenge ended on June 30 without a replacement, the science, innovation and technology minister said the system needs an overhaul.
“As a government, we are committed to building a science system that supports growth, and a science sector that drives high-tech, high-productivity, high-value businesses and jobs,” she said in a statement.
“However, putting more money into a system that is not currently fit for purpose will not help us achieve our goals as a nation.”
The National Science Challenges always had a finite life, designed to progress specific research priorities within the 10-year timeframe.
Collins said two reviews are underway in the sector to ensure it contributes to growing the economy and achieves better health, environmental and social outcomes.
A Science System Advisory group, chaired by Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, is looking at the challenges and opportunities facing the science system, and a University Advisory Group is considering the effectiveness of the current university system.
Gluckman is expected to deliver his first report shortly.
The 11 National Science Challenges have received $680 million in funding. Scientists told Farmers Weekly that its ending will drive staff to look for work overseas.
Collins said the sector has fundamental issues that need addressing and described the current science system as complex, fragmented and overly competitive.
“Getting the system settings right is the best way to ensure that our top scientists are able to pursue their careers in NZ,” she said.
She wants to see more people pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) careers and that means ensuring they are trained to meet the changing needs of the country, support existing industries and grasp new opportunities.
She sees opportunities in areas such as space and aerospace, biotechnology, quantum technology, advanced materials and medical technology.
She singled out gene technology as offering “enormous benefits for NZ”, and said regulatory changes to allow those opportunities to be captured will become law in the coming year.
Benefits from gene technology range from combating climate change, improving health outcomes, lifting agricultural productivity and boosting exports.
“Updating gene technology laws while ensuring strong protections for human health and the environment is something we campaigned on and committed to in the government’s coalition agreements.”
