MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

From current economic upheavals lessons can be learnt from the more resilient economies of West Germany and Japan. We must increase our technological capability if we are to compete effectively in international markets. This Ministry has the following projects in manpower development and the collection and dissemination of technological information:- (a) A Nuclear Energy Unit was established in 1973 to collect technical information on the use of nuclear energy. (b) The Radiation Protection Act was enforced from 1st September, 1974 to regulate the use of radio-active materials and irradiating apparatus. (c) Plans for an Ocean Engineering Centre have been formulated. This proposed Centre will provide research, design, engineering and technical information services to upgrade the nation's shipbuilding and repairing capabilities. (d) The Ministry is overseeing the building of a new University at Kent Ridge and a new Polytechnic at Dover Road. Both are scheduled for completion at about 1978. (e) The Science Centre will open in 1976. Its exhibits will complement science teaching in schools by showing the role of science and technology in social and economic development. (f) After re-organisation the Chemistry Department diversified its activities to include research and development for industries, consultancy on industrial waste, radioactive waste disposal and microbiological examination of food. (g) Metric conversion in 1975 will focus on the retail trade sector.