Parliament approves creation of ministry of science

  By Joyce Namutebi and Moses Walubiri                                             

Parliament has passed a motion calling for establishment of a ministry of science, technology and innovation.

The motion for a resolution of Parliament was moved by the chairperson of the committee on science and technology, Denis Hamson Obua and seconded by the vice chairperson, Kafeero Sekitoleko.

Justifying the creation of the new ministry on Thursday Obua said the National Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy requires the state to stimulate technological and scientific development by adopting appropriate policies and enactment of enabling legislation.

Also, he referred members to the National Development Plan 2010/11-2014/15 which provides for establishment of a ministry of science, technology and innovation with mandate to strengthen institutional mechanisms to support science, technology and innovation development.

 He noted that East African Community partners states have established such ministries except Uganda, where science, technology and innovation falls under the Ministry of Finance, planning and Economic Development.

 Obua explained that his committee discussed this development and empowered him to communicate their decision and request to the President, which was done in a letter dated March 21, 2012.