On December 3, a discussion streamed online was held as part of the “Science and Your Life” campaign, focusing on the benefits of the Latvian National Research Programs. The event featured Latvian scientists, representatives from various ministries, and industry experts. Among the participants was Jānis Latvels, a senior expert from the Development Department of ISSP UL. This event highlighted the crucial role these programs play in advancing Latvian society and the economy.
Latvian scientists demonstrate through their work that innovative solutions and new knowledge can arise when science is supported by a conducive environment characterized by clearly defined goals, stable funding, and strong collaboration among state institutions, the business sector, and society. National Research Programs exemplify how state-defined objectives and the expertise of scientists can converge to create sustainable solutions in areas such as language development, effective land resource management, security enhancement, and overall quality of life improvement. Only when science is provided with the opportunity, support, and trust can its potential translate into tangible benefits for society.
During the discussion, participants analyzed several key topics, including:
- The role of science in societal development
- The practical applicability of research outcomes
- Strengthening collaboration between science and politics
- The importance of science communication
- Promoting sustainable development
- The significance of succession and cooperation
The discussion was moderated by TV personality Gustavs Terzens, alongside leading researcher Gatis Krūmiņš from Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences. Representatives from the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Economics, the Ministry of Defence, and the Latvian Council of Science, as well as scientists from various Latvian research institutions, participated in the closing event of the “Science and Your Life: Everything Begins with Understanding” campaign, which showcased a glimpse of the knowledge, methods, and product prototypes developed through the National Research Programs. These examples represent the results of four National Research Program projects that concluded in late 2023 and 2024. The information campaign included researchers’ personal experiences and summarized research outcomes.
The recording of the discussion in Latvian
