0.1 Regions and clusters  (Page 10/15)

The plan also describes how innovation and skills are to be supported through programmes such as the Technology Exploitation Programme (TEP) and SMARTCymru.

It also describes how this would be achieved in conjunction with other WAG bodies including the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) and Education and Learning Wales (ELWa).

A science policy for wales

The Science Policy for Wales (WAG 2006) underlines the importance given by WAG to the Knowledge Economy in the future of the country, citing the vital role of science, engineering and technology. Three key priority areas were identified for focus of support and resources of:

• Health/life sciences.
• The low carbon economy.
• Sustainable economic and social regeneration.

The policy recognises the potential for enterprise developing from scientific endeavour in Wales, though recognises fundamental challenges including the relatively low intensity of scientific research within the country and the low level of Research Funding Council resources won by Welsh Higher Education Institutes (HEIs). This is reflected in much of the evidence supplied to the review that preceded the policy (NAW 2006). However, the Policy does also acknowledge that Wales is a small nation that could not and should not aspire to the breadth and depth of science activity in which much larger territories have the resources to engage. It is though recognised that despite this, scientists and engineers working in Wales will be working in their specific fields with science of the highest quality on national and international stages.

A science advisor for wales

In 2008, the First Minister for Wales Rhodri Morgan commissioned a study on the appointment of a Science Advisor for Wales. The First Minister in Wales also has the role of Science Minister.

It was seen that the promotion of science in Wales is fundamental to developing the country as a world-respected knowledge-led economy by building up the science base, and the ability to quickly commercialise on the science base that is in place. Also, the promotion of STEM subjects in the schools and colleges, to ensure that there is a throughput of students that are choosing to study science subjects in schools and universities, and pursuing science careers thereafter.

This appointment was built on the already high standard of science and research in Wales in areas such as medical technology held in high regards in Europe, and a track record of innovations, including automated DNA testing, dispersive X-ray spectrometry and 3D intelligent sensor technology In addition to this is the people that have been conducting pioneering work, such as Professor Sir Martin Evans, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his research into stem cell technology.

This was compounded by the investment in leading-edge research and development centres, including the £16.5 million PETIC in Cardiff, the £22 million NanoHealth Centre and the £50m Institute of Life Sciences that houses the Boots Innovation Centre at Swansea University