TheCable

The house of representatives committee on science and technology says it will develop “initiatives” to address brain drain in the sector.

Dachung Bagos, chairman of the committee, spoke on Thursday at the inaugural meeting of the panel in Abuja.

Bagos said the committee, on his watch, will achieve the vision of the lower legislative chamber to reposition the nation’s science and technology industry in order to drive economic growth, diversification, foster social development and ensure global competitiveness.

The legislator said one of the work plans of the committee is to lead the ‘stay home and grow’ campaign which includes “developing initiatives” to “discourage brain drain and utilise the potentials” of Nigerian youths.

He said the committee will engage with relevant stakeholders, ministry of innovation, science, and technology, agencies under the ministry, and diaspora experts to identify areas of legislative intervention.

The committee chairman said through oversight visits, lawmakers will ascertain the compliance and implementation levels of the Appropriation Act to ensure the prudent utilisation of resources allocated to the ministry and its agencies.

“Our committee will assess intervention needs and the utilization of funds from international partners, donor agencies, and grantees in the STI sector,” he said.

“We will work to ensure improved utilization of grants for the sector’s benefit.”

Bagos said the members of the committee will embark on a study tour to learn from the legislative committees on science and technology in select nations to enhance their knowledge and apply international best practices in maximizing Nigeria’s STI potential.

He said the committee will organise a retreat to bring together major stakeholders in science and technology for synergy.

He added that visits to educational institutions will be made to encourage innovation, identify areas of special needs, and facilitate legislative interventions.