SBAC voice support for engineering and science focus

Posted on 27 Jan 2009 by The Manufacturer

The Aerospace Industry is backing the House of Commons Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee’s calls for "putting science and engineering at the heart of government policy".

The Committee’s inquiry is ongoing and yesterday heard from Science Minister Lord Drayson as well as The Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).

Ian Godden, SBAC Chief Executive, said government must do more to boost the credentials of science and engineering in the public eye because as industries they provide high economic return for the country and will provide the solution to some of the world’s problems, like climate change for instance. He also said jobs in science and engineering should be promoted because they can provide rewarding careers, both financially and otherwise, for the individual

“Practical ways in which to achieve the vital aim of boosting science and engineering include greater funding for teaching these subjects, incentives for schools and colleges to work closely with local industry and ensuring that the secondary school curriculum does not lose the focus on the practical applications of these subjects.

“Working more closely with industry would also assist the Government in achieving this aim as well as helping it formulate more effective policies on these subjects. A National Strategy for Science and Engineering would ensure that initiatives are focused around the nation’s needs and funded appropriately. We recommend such an approach in our submission because at present projects are often forced to fit the funding regime, which does not deliver the best results.”
SBAC’s response also called for:

• A continued national approach to science and engineering to avoid fragmentation that could arise from a regional approach;

• Improved consultation with industry to draw on the National Aerospace Technology Strategy and industry skills and investment roadmaps; and

• A National Science and Engineering Strategy to bring together all stakeholders to help the Government determine science and engineering policy.

Click here to read about the IUSS’ “putting science and engineering at the heart of government policy” enquiry.