Implementation of National Science Technology and Innovation Policy 2019: Assessment of Challenges in Government Organizations of Nepal

Abstract

Government of Nepal promulgated the third policy on science and technology including innovation in 2019 (NSTIP-2019). This policy being aligned with the federal and provincial governance system has given stronger emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship for economic development. Online questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the status and capabilities of governmental research organizations and universities because they are in the forefront in executing action plans formulated in NSTIP-2019. An encouraging response from a total of 36 respondents representing 17 organizations was received. All respondents have reported the poor infrastructure and lack of budget for research activities in their respective organization. Low productivities of research institutes and academia were attributed to erroneous understanding existing in policy makers and underdeveloped research culture prevalent in research and academic institutions including limitations in governments’ system of budget al.. location, leader/staff recruitment and procurement of necessary research materials. Based on the information and suggestions provided by a wide range of expertise in survey respondents, this paper identifies enablers of positive research and innovation culture in Nepalese perspectives. Key attributes of ‘sound research and innovation ecosystem’ discussed here are most likely to guide implementation process of NSTIP-2019 with higher levels of confidence and effectiveness.