10 April

Science and technology play a major role in a country’s development. The present moment is one of transition to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, where manufacturing systems exchange data and information using automation systems.

The spheres of science, technology, and innovation need to gather momentum so that Myanmar does not get left behind.

Our approach to the Fourth Industry Revolution must be based on innovation, sharing, and leadership.

We must remain aware that the approach is concerned not only with youths, but all people. At the same time, we must invest in human resource development as much as possible to achieve success in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

For the development of science, technology, and innovation, efforts of not only experts, but people at the grassroots also need to be recognized and encouraged.

It is also required that we make arrangements to increase the participation of youths in the fields of innovation and invention, as well as create opportunities for such activities.

When we come across new technological skills, we must face them bravely, and we must reform our education system so that it gives us practical life skills and helps us adapt to a changing world.

Meanwhile, emphasis must be placed on transferring technology from innovation to manufacturing. If full technology copyrights are granted to them, there would be more innovators. For this to happen, we all need to work for the establishment of technology transfer rules and regulations.

The move would also support the country’s successful transition towards an inclusive digital economy, and support the expansion of e-commerce.

Myanmar is now in the midst of a series of ambitious liberalization measures intended to open up new sectors to foreign competition and regional collaboration, making the country an attractive destination for FDI moving forward.

It is common knowledge that science, technology, and innovation play a major role in implementing the digital economy, pillars, and strategic work processes of the Myanmar Sustainable Development Plan 2018-2030.

Therefore, the works included in the aims of the Science, Technology and Innovation Law, enacted on 25 June, 2018, need to be implemented.

Only then can the country be poised, within the region and internationally, to achieve our aims and sustainable development.

GNLM