|
Thursday, April 7, 2005
A parliamentary report from the Commons Science & Technology
Select Committee that calls for a radical new approach to science
education funding has been warmly welcomed by the Association of
the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI).
If the UK Government is to realise its progressive vision of a
science and innovation led economy then a strong supply of science
graduates is essential. The Select Committee rightly point out that
this requires stimulating student demand from primary school through
to university. Good careers information, a stimulating curriculum
and empowered teachers will all help to drive this.
"We believe there needs to be a radical re-think in terms
of funding for strategic science subjects, not just in terms of
the hub and spoke model suggested, but also in terms of incentivising
students to study science," said ABPI Director of Science &
Technology, Dr Philip Wright.
"Consideration should be given for short-term additional funding
for universities or bursaries that would allow tuition fees for
students studying essential science subjects to be waived."
The ABPI is establishing a science education task force that will
report in 6 months time, to identify key issues from the pharmaceutical
industry perspective and how industry can assist. Members will be
drawn from the ABPI R&D, Medical and Manufacturing Committees
and reflect the breadth and depth of science and engineering skills
required to support the industry.
|
