Amman: Secretary-General of the Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST), Dr. Mashhour Rifai, launched a program to support applied scientific research in the Kingdom's chemical and cosmetics industries.
According to Jordan News Agency, the initiative was announced during a seminar at the Arab Thought Forum, focusing on policies to enhance the connection between industry and scientific research. The seminar addressed key issues, including the analysis of research-based priorities, aligning them with industry needs, and identifying additional funding sources for applied research programs targeting the industrial sector.
Speaking at the event, Rifai emphasized HCST's commitment to agreements with affiliated funds, ministries, and industrial entities, and announced plans to increase funding for industrial projects this year. He encouraged stakeholders to form partnerships between industrial entities and academics to find scientific and practical solutions for challenges facing the national industry.
Dana Zoubi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, commended the Council's efforts in bridging the gap between industry and academia through the Scientific Research and Innovation Support Fund. She called for regulatory legislation to optimize collaboration outcomes and bolster the global competitiveness of local products. Zoubi highlighted the importance of cooperation between companies and research teams in transforming ideas into products and processes that meet international standards and ensure a strong presence in global markets.
Fathi Jaghbir, Chairman of the Jordan Chamber of Industry, praised HCST's efforts in overcoming obstacles in the industrial sector, expressing the chamber's readiness to support national efforts led by the ministry and the council to promote industrial development.