On June 14, the Science Committee organized a public discussion on the Draft Medium Term Expenditure Framework for 2020-2022, including the Applications for Budget Financing for 2020, which was attended by representatives of the civil society organizations and the representatives from the scientific applicant organizations. Mr. Movses Aristakesyan, President of the “Economic Rights Center” NGO, Member of the Governing Board of the CSO Anti-Corruption Coalition of Armenia participated in the discussion as well.

Mr. Samvel Harutyunyan, the Chairman of the Science Committee, briefly presented the main goals and priorities of the Committee for 2020-2022, which are:

1. Increasing the efficiency of science financing, introduction of performance-based financing mechanisms,
2. Implementation of scientific research work on internationally competitive fundamental studies, applied research based on economy requirements, as well as acquisition of dual-matter knowledge.
3. Implementation of an effective system of reproduction of scientific cadres, modernization of science infrastructure.
4. Establishment of scientific, scientific and educational, and scientific-technological centers of excellence in some technological fields providing breakthrough development.
5. Strengthening of education-science ties, forming networks of higher education institutions and scientific organizations, ensuring the right of free movement of students, professors and researchers in network organizations.
6. Progressive development of Armenian studies, including international cooperation development.

He pointed out that the Medium Term Expenditure Framework for 2020-2022, including the Applications for Budget Financing for 2020 has been developed considering the above mentioned steps.

Mr. Vardan Sahakyan, Deputy Chairman of the Committee presented the changes made in the conditions of the competition announced by the Committee.

Discussions on various subjects, ranging from middle-aged scholars to membership in international scientific organizations and financing the maintenances cost of supercomputer presented to the NAS from France took place. Mr. Movses Aristakesyan, President of the “Economic Rights Center” NGO, made extensive recommendations. Discussion participants were asked to submit their comments in written form. Proposals and remarks submitted during the discussions will be summarized and published on the website of the Science Committee, and shall be provided to the RA Ministry of Finance as well.