(January 04/2017) An evaluation training focused on the implementation of thematic research fund management was organized by the Ministry of Education. The State Minister for Higher Education Development, Honorable Ato Kora Tushune, stated that although many studies are being conducted in the country, many questions arise regarding the results.

The Honorable State Minister also pointed out that research and development activities conducted in a fragmented manner are not producing the desired results. Therefore, he emphasized that research topics should be collected and made concrete in order to use financial resources appropriately.

Ato Kora also stated that the Ministry of Education is supporting the work of collecting and making research concrete. The Acting Chief Executive Officer of Research and Community Engagement, Dr. Serawit Handiso, for his part, indicated that the ‘thematic’ (thematic-oriented) research fund management is being implemented in higher education institutions.

He pointed out that the main objective of the reform is to enable research to be cost-effective and solve societal problems by facilitating the appropriateness, efficiency and digitalization of research organization. Dr. Serawit added that another objective of the reform is to encourage innovation. The evaluation training was attended by Vice Presidents and Directors of Research and Community Engagement from all public and private higher education institutions.