A roadmap for a knowledge-based economy in Syria

Damascus, SANA- Academics and researchers have discussed the proposed roadmap for a knowledge-based economy in Syria, within a workshop organized by the Higher Commission for Scientific Research in cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia “ESCWA” at al-Assad National Library in Damascus.

The workshop, which was attended by researchers and representatives of universities, scientific bodies, institutions and ministries, included a presentation of a report on concepts related to the requirements of a knowledge-based economy and the future vision of this type of economy in Syria.

The workshop also focused on the role of scientific research bodies in generating knowledge and ways to invest it in supporting the national economy, in addition to discussing the interventions of government and private agencies to enrich and correct the proposed report, paving the way for its adoption and the transition to the implementation phase.

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Bassam Ibrahim, stressed in his speech the importance of investing the knowledge produced by Syrian universities, bodies and research centers and linking it to the real needs of society, its support for the national economy and economic development, and its contribution to addressing the repercussions of war.

Minister Ibrahim pointed out that the ministry’s goal at this stage is to focus on scientific research, economic development and social service.

Director General of the Higher Commission for Scientific Research, Dr. Majd al-Jamali, in turn, considered that the transition to a knowledge-based economy is inevitable, as knowledge products in their market value have exceeded much of the rent-seeking products and the profits of knowledge companies have become enormous.

Dr.al-Jamali stressed that there is a clear global transformation that entails adopting a national strategy, shedding light on the role of educational institutions and universities in facilitating knowledge and supporting students in this field.

For his part Nawar al-Awa. Regional Advisor on Technology for Development at UN-ESCWA said that ESCWA is working to support government agencies in developing policies and strategies for the transition to a knowledge-based economy, digital economy and digital government.

He added that the ESCWA also encourages government institutions to employ technology to transform into smart societies in order to improve the quality of life, and to create new job opportunities for young people and curb corruption and waste of resources.

Rector of the Syrian Virtual University and National Consultant at ESCWA, Dr. Khalil al-Ajmi, presented the proposed report, which included indicators for measuring the pillars of the knowledge-based economy, an analysis of the current situation in Syria, the most important weaknesses and strengths, and the most important opportunities and challenges.

He noted that simple amendments to the administrative and financial system in which we work in the public sector and without causing any harm can achieve very huge returns and profits.

Ruaa al-Jazaeri