On 5 August, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko held a meeting with the working group reviewing the National Academy of Sciences' performance. According to Vasily Gerasimov, the group's work was conducted in two phases. The first phase evaluated the Academy's results in practical-oriented research and implementation in economic sectors, including import-substituting production. The second phase assessed the efficiency of the Academy's organizational structure.
“Our primary discussion focused on how to restructure the Academy of Sciences’ operations to achieve tangible outcomes. We have clearly delineated the scope of scientific research versus technical development work, along with their respective funding mechanisms,” Vasily Gerasimov, told reporters.
We have discussed the reforms to enhance not only the Academy's role but also that of sector regulators, who should serve as clients for applied research projects. They must oversee implementation and subsequent commercialization efforts. Naturally, this will require organizational restructuring, as our working group identified some shortcomings. This will be a comprehensive, multi-faceted undertaking.”
According to Vasily Gerasimov, the head of state has tasked the working group, Council of Ministers, and the Academy itself with finalizing the institution's development roadmap by year-end. “The meeting demonstrated we are largely aligned in our thinking. While some nuances remain under discussion, I am confident we will collectively achieve the results demanded by the head of state,” he said.
The chairman of the State Control Committee emphasized the need to avoid situations where the National Academy of Sciences simultaneously acts as client, executor, and regulator. He stressed that sector regulators should be involved in applied research projects to prevent conflicts of interest. “We must eliminate the temptation for the Academy to commission research topics that serve no practical purpose beyond securing funding,” Vasily Gerasimov stated.
However, he clarified that the Academy should maintain its role as the primary client for fundamental research. The official proposed establishing external oversight bodies, such as specialized councils, to evaluate the relevance and national importance of research topics.
