The transformation of the scientific sphere was discussed at a meeting between Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Denys Kurbatov and young scientists from UzhNU
On Friday, September 5, Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Denys Kurbatov visited Uzhhorod National University. The main goal was to familiarize the scientific community with the main steps of the transformation of the scientific sphere. The event was also attended by representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science, rectors and vice-rectors of Ukrainian universities.
"While in Uzhhorod with our colleagues, we couldn't help but visit Uzhhorod National University, as we are convinced that it is one of the leading universities in the country in terms of research activity. It is prominent and has been gaining significant momentum, especially in recent years. So, taking advantage of this opportunity, I would like to present the main steps being taken by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine in the scientific and innovation spheres. I would also like to share what has already been done and our plans for the future. I hope that today you will hear about new opportunities for yourselves. After all, this is what we are working for," emphasized Denys Kurbatov.
Vice-Rector for Scientific Work Ivan Myroniuk noted: “Today, we have here the most active scientists who have been doing a wide variety of research work for many years, young scientists who already have extensive experience, representatives of the Council of Young Scientists, and the Student Scientific Society of UzhNU. So, I am convinced that this conversation will be fruitful.”
In particular, in his speech, the Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine focused on one of the key priorities of the Ministry of Education and Science today – the introduction of basic funding based on the results of state certification: "The state certification mechanism allows us to identify the best universities and scientific institutions and provide them with increased basic funding. The results for agricultural and social sciences have already been summarized, and the results for natural and technical sciences will be announced in the near future. The distribution formula takes into account external funding, the size of the institution, the number of young scientists, and publications," explained Denys Kurbatov.
Another step is the creation of defense-oriented research centers, namely Centers of Excellence. "Today, we are preparing to launch a competitive selection of concepts for the creation of centers of excellence. We plan to announce it in October. The funding for one center will amount to about UAH 100 million, which will provide for modern equipment and higher salaries for scientists. The task of such centers will be to develop technologies that the state needs," emphasized Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Denys Kurbatov.
The speech also touched on the Horizon Europe program , the Agency for Applied Research and Business Orders for R&D, postgraduate projects for STEM specialties, legislative work, and other projects in this area.
“We have received many important questions and are looking forward to feedback from the scientific community. We are convinced that science and innovation will become the foundation of Ukraine's new economy,” concluded Deputy Minister Denys Kurbatov.
