PM strongly criticizes scientists

Outgoing Prime Minister Jiří Rusnok has strongly criticized the Czech scientific community for not producing enough practical and profit-making results, in an interview for the Hospodařské noviny daily published on Wednesday. The premier was responding to criticism that his government’s budget for 2014 cut the amount allotted to science and research by 1.3 billion, compared to the budget proposed by the previous cabinet. Mr. Rusnok said that there are currently enough funds allocated to science, but that it is not being used effectively. In his opinion, the situation could be improved if the Education Ministry were divided into two institutions – one in charge of research and universities, the other taking care of primary and secondary schools as well as sports.

Author: Masha Volynsky