MISTI and UNESCO organize Training on Strengthening Inclusive Science, Technology and Innovation Systems for the development of GO-SPIN Country Profile for Cambodia
The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) and UNESCO, organized a training Workshop on 2nd July 2021, to sensitize participants on the key Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) concepts, methodology and tools, that are being used for the development of the GO-SPIN – Global Observatory of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments – Country profile for Cambodia. The training was organized following the National Workshop to launch the development of GO-SPIN Country Profile for Cambodia on 24th June 2021.
Over 50 participants attended the national training workshop, including members of the National GO-SPIN Working Committee and GO-SPIN Secretariat, representatives from line ministries, associations, and relevant national STI stakeholders.
In her welcome remarks, Ms. Ana Persic, Chief a.i. of Section of Science Policy and Partnerships, stated that “the production of the GO-SPIN inventory will be a first step in mapping the STI system, before analysing its strengths and opportunities, and formulating strategic recommendations for the Government for building a sustainable STI environment in Cambodia.”
H.E. Prof. Chhem Kieth Rethy opened the Training noting that “mapping research, technology and innovation is key to the Kingdom of Cambodia, and to the further development of the economy of Cambodia.” Prof. Rethy expressed appreciation for the excellent collaboration between MISTI and UNESCO, and the participation of all stakeholders, in this important process.
During the workshop, UNESCO expert, Ms. Sirin Elci, and Ms. Kornelia Tzinova, Division of Science Policy and Capacity-Building at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, introduced the participants to the key concepts of STI policies and policy instruments, and the methodological approach and analytical units of UNESCO’s GO-SPIN platform. Participants were given a demonstration on how the platform works, and how information can be accessed, drawing on global and regional examples.
UNESCO experts explained the processes for completing the national surveys on STI institutions, STI legal frameworks, and STI policy instruments which are in place in Cambodia. Participants were actively engaged throughout the workshop to develop their understanding of the STI concepts and GO-SPIN methodology and tools, and how STI policies can promote progress in education, environment, industry, infrastructure development, health and other sectors for socio-economic development in Cambodia.
The GO-SPIN Country Profile for Cambodia will provide decision-makers, parliamentarians, universities, private sector, specialists, and the general public with a wide-ranging set of diverse information on STI ecosystem in Cambodia. The study will serve as one of the main policy documents for STI actors to shape and nurture National Innovation System (NIS) in Cambodia. UNESCO and MISTI will work closely with all STI stakeholders, through an inclusive and participatory approach, to finalize the GO-SPIN Country Profile for Cambodia by the end of 2021.