The House of Representatives has pledged to closely monitor the effective use of funds provided by international partners and donor agencies to advance science and technology in the country.

Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Dachung Musa Bagos, said this during the inaugural meeting of the committee in Abuja on Thursday.

“Our committee will assess the specific needs for intervention and the proper utilisation of financial support from international partners and donor agencies in the science, technology, and innovation sector,” Mr Bagos explained.

The legislator said the committee was dedicated to enhancing the utilisation of grants for the benefit of the sector.

He also outlined the committee’s plans, which included engaging with relevant stakeholders and conducting oversight visits to ensure compliance with the 2023 Appropriation Act.

Mr Bagos stressed the committee’s commitment to working on policies, programmes, and budgets to bolster the science and technology sector.

According to him, the committee would also organise study tours and retreats to harness the potential for economic diversification and national development.

The lawmaker, however, discouraged brain drain while promoting youth involvement in the field.

Mr Bagos, therefore, promised that visits to educational institutions will be conducted to foster innovation and identify areas requiring legislative interventions. 

(NAN)