21 November 2025, 14:14

Lukashenko: Science funding is substantial, but efficiency is key issue

Aleksandr Lukashenko

MINSK, 21 November (BelTA) – While state spending on science, technology, and innovation grows every year, the crucial issue is the return on this investment, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at the government conference held on 21 November to discuss the development of the domestic science and the performance of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB), BelTA has learned.

“I have said it many times and I will say it again. As the young sovereign state of Belarus was taking shape, we made science one of our key priorities. And we have never once doubted this decision,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said. “We have preserved our scientific heritage, upgraded the research infrastructure of scientific organizations, and established mechanisms for state financial support of research and development.”

The president noted that state spending on science, technology, and innovation is increasing year by year. “Considerable funds are allocated for this. But the most important question is whether the return on the costs and efforts that the state spends on the development of science is growing. Not always, as we can see from our discussion today. Are we generating R&D products that meet the world standards (let alone surpass it)? Are they ready for implementation in the industries, or are they just for display on exhibition stands?” Aleksandr Lukashenko outlined the questions regarding the efficiency of the Belarusian science.

According to him, there are many unresolved issues in this area. The head of state recalled that upon appointment, he had instructed the Chairman of the NASB Presidium Vladimir Karanik, to expedite the work to eliminate all problems hindering the activities of the Academy and the science sector as a whole. “He promised me that by 1 January, the major pressing issues would be resolved. We must come to the congress of scientists fully prepared. To be honest, I have yet to see any real progress in this area,” the president added.