Science policy and effective communications are becoming critical components of the S&T enterprise these days and no wonder. With an approaching federal Budget, tight government finances and looming deadlines for key S&T organizations, it’s increasingly important that both governments and the public appreciate the importance of strategically funding activities to keep Canada competitive and on the cutting edge of innovation.
The obstacles are formidable. On the one hand, lack of a widespread science culture in Canada makes it difficult to convince an election-conscious government that maintaining and enhancing support for S&T is a major priority. Organizations seeking funding renewal must therefore work harder to increase their visibility and communicate their value propositions to Ottawa more effectively (pages 1 and 3).
There’s also a paucity of a coherent, science-based media coverage of issues in which S&T plays a central role. The changing nature of journalism and declining numbers of journalists specializing in science makes it difficult to build the level of awareness that’s essential for a greater appreciation and support for the role S&T plays in nearly every facet of our lives.
The launch of the Science Media Centre of Canada (page 6) and the inaugural science policy conference in Toronto later this month (page 4) are therefore cause for celebration. Initiatives designed to promote science to government and the public will have far reaching benefits for Canadians and research organizations working to contribute to the social and economic advancement of the nation.
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