Government reiterates support for research for development
Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Doto Biteko speaks during the Annual Joint Scientific Conference in Dar es Salaam on May 14, 2024. PHOTO | PMO
What you need to know:
- Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Doto Biteko stressed the imperative of not merely conducting research but actively disseminating its findings to maximise their impact.
Dar es Salaam. The government has reiterated its commitment to support research undertakings for the development of the nation.
At the Annual Joint Scientific Conference yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Doto Biteko said the government's commitment to supporting quality and innovative research initiatives was unwavering.
He stressed the imperative of not merely conducting research but actively disseminating its findings to maximise their impact.
"I recommend more sharing of research findings with the public to extend the impact to the public and policymakers... don't leave the findings on shelves," Dr Biteko told participants of the conference organised by the National Institute for Medical Research (Nimr) on May 14, 2024.
Nimr’s director general, Dr Said Aboud, highlighted the challenges posed by the underutilization of research findings in informing policy creation and decision-making processes.
Director General of National Institute for Medical Research Prof Said Aboud addresses the Annual Joint Scientific Conference yesterday. PHOTO | COURTESY
He called for a concerted effort to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and practical application.
He said part of what the institute does to support that mission is through the annual conference, which provides an opportunity for interested parties within and outside Tanzania to share and discuss health research results, contributing to policy development and improving practice.
“The conference's main theme is advancing research and development for improving health services,” he said.
Other subthemes that will dominate engagements during the May 16–14 conference are communicable diseases, including re-emerging and neglected tropical diseases, as well as non-communicable diseases.
Dr Aboud said others are health systems strengthening, innovation and technological advancement; reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health; and multi-sectoral and community engagement in disease prevention and control.
“There is also climate change and social determinants of health, nutrition and health,” he said.
The deputy health minister, Dr Godwin Mollel, emphasised the necessity of investing in research innovation and nurturing young researchers to propel scientific advancement.
“The government is advocating for more research and innovation as it gives more meaning to national development,” he said.
