GASABO - Researchers especially those in institutions of higher learning are set to benefit from a government grant to promote their activities.

This was revealed yesterday by the Minister in the Office of the President in charge of Science, Technology, Scientific Research and ICT, Prof. Romain Murenzi.

The minister said on phone that a capitation grant will be available next year with the aim of improving science and technology research in prioritised areas of national development.

He said that the grant, whose amount is yet to be set, will aid a range of research projects including biotechnology, agriculture modernisation, energy and environmental spheres.

"We will allocate the grant to institutions with researchers who will have prepared their precise research proposals in the areas I have mentioned above,” Prof. Murenzi underscored.

He added that the government aims at improving and investing in science and technology by enabling high quality research and promoting collaborative partnerships among researchers.

The minister also revealed that there are plans to invest in the physical science infrastructure of higher education and enhance capability in emerging areas of scientific research.

"The fund will be structured to encourage collaborations with institutions, businesses and charities, as part of a wider drive to ensure the country gets the greatest possible benefit.”

The introduction of the capitation grant in Rwanda is expected to increase availability of new research knowledge as one of the critical efforts in social development.

Murenzi noted that to achieve this, research should be understood not only as a source of new knowledge but also as a process that trains people to create more knowledge.

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