Science
Science is a common good and a base of both economic growth (through creation and application of new knowledge and technologies), and social development (through application of scientific knowledge in decision-making and the increase of social capital with education). Science is not just a resource but also a crucial instrument of production: new knowledge is a product by itself. Development of science is therefore a focal point of the overall future development of Croatia.The main purpose of science is creating a system of technology and science which will be one of the key factors of socio-economic development.
Development of science in Croatia must be focused on achieving excellence, above all by defining and supporting the existing centres of excellence, and creating new ones. Only an internationally recognized and competitive scientific work can be a base for development.
Good science is based on quality and effective education; on a system of higher education that creates motivated and creative experts with flexible knowledge. That kind of education requires an overall reform of higher education system.
Investments in science should come from various sources, and should include the principles of competition and selective motivation. That ensures a much needed diversity (fundamental and applied research and experimental development) and various research methodologies, but also protects the autonomy of scientific work.
Scientific activity and research in Croatia comprises six scientific areas; natural, technical, biomedical, social and human sciences.
Science is regulated by the 2003 Act on Scientific Activity and Higher Education, amended in 2004 and 2007.
Along with the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport, and the National Foundation for Science, Higher Education and Technological Development of the Republic of Croatia, the strategic body responsible for the development of science is the National Council for Science. It consists of a chairman and 12 members appointed by the Croatian Parliament upon the proposal of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, and with ensuring a proper representation from the fields of science and arts, from the economy, and the regions.
The acting chairman of the National Council for Science is Prof. Krešimir Pavelić, PhD. Members of these bodies are prominent and internationally renowned scientists from universities, public institutes and the economy.
In accordance with the Act on Scientific Activity and Higher Education, scientific activity is carried out by universities and their units, public scientific institutes, scientific institutes, the Croatian Academy of Arts and Sciences, as well as other legal entities listed in the Register of Scientific Organizations.
