7. Science and Technology Policy
The Government is mindful of the fact in order to achieve an economic recovery it is necessary to rely on appropriate science and technology for developing the production and services sectors. Towards this end, the following policies will be pursued:
(1) Expedite the development of personnel in the areas of science and technology at every level so that there is a sufficient number in terms of both quantity and quality. This will help support sustainable national development and prepare the country for entering the New Economy.
(2) Promote science and technology in the area of research and development by providing support to agencies in both the public and private sectors to benefit the management and production of small- and medium-sized enterprises. Science and technology should be used to help resolve economic, social and environmental problems as well as the selection of the appropriate skills suitable to improve the potential, expertise and proficiency of Thais. This will help increase the capacity for production for export and domestic consumption, both in the industrial and agricultural areas.
(3) Promote the use of technology, particularly information technology, for modern administration and management in order to respond to the needs of national economic and social development. The technology chosen should be appropriate, inexpensive, and can be developed and expanded in a sustainable manner.
(4) Revise and amend the laws dealing with science and technology so that they may benefit scientific and technological development as well as protect intellectual property rights.