Section 4: Functions of

the council The functions of the council shall be (a) to advise on and coordinate the formulation of an explicit national policy on all fields of science and technology; (b) to assist in the promotion and development of indigenous science and technology through- (i) preparation of science and technology plans; (ii) organisation of training science and technology (S&T) manpower; (iii) carrying out scientific and technological research and development (R&D); (iv) technology transfer and adaptation; (v) utilisation of natural resources and local manpower; (vi) establishment of research and experimental development institutions, scientific and technological documentation and information services, pilot plants and other testing grounds and standardisation and quality control centres; and (vii) encouragement of local innovations by providing more rapid and less costly incentives and programming integrated and coordinated science and technology activities; (c) to assist in the rationalisation of the use of foreign science and technology; (d) to act as a clearinghouse for information on research and experimental development taking place in scientific institutions, centres and other enterprises and on the potential application of their results; (e) to protect intellectual property through appropriate patent laws and to operate a national patent office; (f) to disseminate research and development findings through seminars, workshops, publication of journals or any other means of publication of research findings; (g) to recognise and honour scientists and technologists through awards or presentations for outstanding achievements in science and technology; (h) to work in close cooperation with and coordinate all scientific and technological activities of persons, institutions, sectors and organisations; (i) to draw up estimates for the implementation of the national science and technology policy and plans on disbursements to the agencies concerned; (j) to review generally and advise on programmes and budgets for the promotion of science and technology; (k) to carry out any other function that may be incidental or conducive to the above functions, or as the Minister may assign to it.