Researchers want to run for election to form 'science bench'

The recent political landscape of the country is remarkably unfit for the development of science and technology. The latest problem that has taken the sleep of researchers from Brazil is the announcement that Capes (Higher Education Personnel Improvement Coordination) could cut more than 200, 000 scholarships and research.

Thinking about this need and trying to defend investments in education and science, some researchers came together and formed the group Engaged Scientists in an attempt to organize the first “science bench” within the Brazilian political scene. Pre-candidates so far are Walter Neves, an anthropologist and retired professor at USP, and Mariana Moura, a doctoral student who researches the transfer of values ​​from the energy chain. Both must run for federal and state deputy respectively for the Free Fatherland Party (PPL).

Backward thinking

Walter Neves aims at federal level to regain the autonomy of the Ministry of Science and Technology by detaching him from the Ministry of Communications

The problem, for those who do not understand, is quite serious: in 2010, the investment in this area was $ 10 billion. In the current year, 2018, it was no more than R $ 3.4 billion. In addition, when Acting President Michel Temer took office, he merged MCTIC with the Ministry of Communications, making clear his disdain for the development of science and technology.

Walter Neves aims at federal level to regain the autonomy of the Ministry of Science and Technology by disengaging it from the Ministry of Communications and gradually increasing investment in this area, reaching a level of 3.5% per year and setting the value as minimum floor. in the constitution. Mariana Moura wants to integrate the different institutes, universities and entities to better take advantage of what is available in the state sphere of SP.

***

Do you know the Mega Curioso newsletter? Weekly, we produce exclusive content for lovers of the biggest curiosities and bizarres of this big world! Register your email and do not miss this way to keep in touch!

Researchers want to run elections to form 'science bench' via TecMundo