Skopje, 10 November 2023 (MIA) – In recent years, populist movements have incited skepticism over scientific achievements on a global level, which is why it is very important to work on building trust in science, noted the speakers at a discussion Friday marking World Science Day for Peace and Development organized by the “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University (UKIM) in Skopje.

At the event, the rector of the state university, Biljana Angelova, said that trust in science stimulates development, which is why, she said, “we must build trust among the citizens and society in the science that we produce – it is our task and duty.”

“Scientists and society need to work together in order to find new and better ways to use science to shape our communities and our world. Cooperation and transparency between the scientific community and the citizens will contribute to a continuous building and maintaining of trust in science through solutions that will lead to permanent benefits for the good of society,” said Angelova.

However, Angelova noted that even though investments in science are growing globally, the developing countries, including North Macedonia, are still investing less than 1 percent of their GDP.

“Macedonia is a part of this group as well, with investments in research and development of 0.3 percent of GDP. In order to keep up with the developed world, our country needs to boost its commitment to research and development… Our approach to securing investments in science and research cannot be relegated to just a single source, which, unfortunately, isn’t wealthy, but we must be proactive and look for access to the international stage, to strengthen our own capacities for access to the EU-funds financing international projects,” said Angelova.

According to Dr. Petre Makreski, professor at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, there is no prosperity without science, because, he said, “it is a catalyst for social progress, its findings encourage innovation, improve life, and increase economic growth”.

“We speak about science very rarely, and as a result a perception is created that it represents a taboo topic or something abstract, which isn’t the case. If we want to restore the public trust in science, we must work to stimulate curiosity and a scientific culture among the youth, beginning from a pre-school age. Unfortunately, there are very few such strategies in our country, and they haven’t produced enough results,” said Makreski.

Makreski also noted the low investment in science in North Macedonia, saying it is devastating that the budget funds allocated for science in 2023 are the lowest they have been in recent years.

At the event, the University also handed out its annual awards for best scientists and best artist at its faculties for 2022.

Photo: MIA