Ceremony to present diplomas to scientific workers

Belarus has taken the first step in building the intellectual economy, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said the ceremony to present diplomas of academicians and corresponding members of the Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB), diplomas of doctors of sciences and professor certificates to scientific and pedagogical workers on 2 February.

“Last year was very important for Belarus. It showed that our country is ready to take the first step in building the intellectual economy, the economy of the future. And we have done it,” the head of state said.

He reminded that at the program of developing science till 2040 was adopted the 2^nd Conference of Scientists. It is a long-term strategic document. “Scientists will bring these ideas to life. Your abilities and intellect deservedly attract new followers, help you establish and develop scientific schools and train young talented scientists. Do not lose this aspiration for scientific search and creativity!” the Belarusian leader said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that the state has done a lot for the development of Belarusian science. Scientists have also put forward their useful proposals. A number of legal acts to raise the social status of scientists and create favorable conditions for intellectual work have been prepared in the country. “I believe that these solutions will be a good stimulus for the promotion of scientific work, will help reveal new talents and attract young people to this rather important work,” the head of state said.

The President compared science to an unread book. “Every new invention, successful experiment or discovery generate new questions, give new topics for work, set new goals and encourage people to solve them,” he said.

The head of state emphasized that deserved recognition comes to those who are not only good specialists in their fields, but especially to those who are fully committed to education and practical work, create sensational and unique projects for the benefit of the country and people.

Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized a special status of the ceremony because new knowledge was acquired in the Year of Science which was announced in Belarus in 2017.

“We can expect sensational discoveries from you. This is the essence of science. Starting from this moment you will live in a new professional reality. It means that you will have to work hard to live up to this high standard,” the President said. “It is even more important to have good followers.”

He emphasized that the results of scientific work should be used in practice for the benefit of the country and its people. “I believe in you and sincerely hope that your professional achievements will leave a mark in the history of Belarusian and world science,” the President said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko also stressed that the main wealth of Belarus is its people.
According to the President, productive development relies on innovations in the manufacturing sector and agriculture, creation of new materials and technologies in mechanical engineering and electronics, chemistry and biology, medicine and pharmaceutics. These industries have a direct impact on the living standards of people.

Research in human sciences also plays a big role in the modern world. “Therefore, teachers, historians, sociologists have a very complicated and responsible task. Today there are many attempts to rewrite history. These people cannot calm down. You need to respond to this challenge properly. Our descendants should have an objective vision of our life and the true history,” the Belarusian leader stressed.

The event is attended by more than 40 scientific and pedagogical workers specializing in various fields. They are famous in Belarus and abroad.

At the meeting with scientists which took place after the ceremony the President said: “Belarus will always support talented and smart people. I swear. I am keeping an eye on it. People’s fates are the main priority for me, especially the fates of talented people. They are the legacy of our country. We cannot lose them.”

At the beginning of the meeting he said that this event is another opportunity to talk to sincere people who do not lie, do not hide their feelings and do not embellish things. “It is important for me to listen to your thoughts. Because you were lucky to find your way in the wonderful world of science. You are committed to the endless and fascinating study of nature and human beings,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

The conversation was very substantial. The participants of the meeting discussed recent achievements in medicine, formation of Belarusian scientific schools and training of aspiring scientists, efforts to promote the export of Belarusian services and products, efficient connection between science and production, development prospects of sport, ideological work.

In the run-up to the Olympic Games in South Korea Aleksandr Lukashenko paid special attention to sport. He emphasized the importance to popularize mass sports and build a healthy nation. The President also spoke about the ideological dimension. “Sport is huge ideology. Athletes’ success inspires the whole nation. Sports events are watched by millions of people.” Therefore, the psychological condition of athletes and potential medal contenders representing the country at international competitions is very important.

The meeting also focused on the law making process and the necessity to adopt certain legal acts. Aleksandr Lukashenko spoke in favor of a more active involvement of leading experts from science in this process.

On the whole, the conversation between the Belarusian President and scientists was very warm and friendly.