Enhance science, technology, Govt urged

GOVERNMENT should put science and technology at the centre of development, the Dziwa Science and Technology Trust (DSAT) has said.

The organisation has appealed to Government to create a stimulus package for equipment to allow locally based scientists conduct their research without any difficulties.

DSAT Executive Director, Veronica Mwaba, told the Daily Nation in Kitwe that it was better to be practical than being reactive in the fight against Covid-19.

“Covid-19 has devastated economies as well as humans and we are going to lack big time as a country if we do not invest in science education,” she said.

Ms Mwaba observed that the pandemic had taught countries and individuals many lessons that needed to be seriously taken care of.

DSAT is a non-governmental organisation aimed at promoting science with a bias on agriculture, education, environment, health, innovation, engineering and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

It also aims to engage experts and the community to appreciate the benefits of science and technology in their livelihood through effective science communication.

Ms Mwaba noted that there was need to build confidence amongst health workers by providing necessary equipment if progress was to be made in the fight against the pandemic while adapting to the new normal.

Ms Mwaba said that it was impressive to note that the country did not import any professionals to help with the Covid-19 as the Ministry of Health was up to the task.

She, however, encouraged Government to increase the use of ICTs to the majority of Youths especially those in Community Schools so as to see more Youths take the Lead on the use of ICTS.

“It would be encouraging to see a generation of youths with the potential to create business opportunities through ICTs. There is no doubt that the drivers of Sustainable development goals are young people,” she said.