Roh pledges to hire scientists, engineers

Celebrating Science Day yesterday, President Roh Moo-hyun said he would increase the number of scientists and engineers hired in government offices. “Unlike in the past, I will have scientists and engineers participate in major decision-making processes for the country,” Mr. Roh said in a speech to the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. The president said he would pass laws over the next five years to promote the further employment of those with science and engineering backgrounds. “Government offices in China are filled with those with science and engineering backgrounds, and more than half of the people who pass the most prestigious government exam in Japan have science and engineering degrees,” said Kim Tai-yoo, the presidential advisor for science and technology. “In Korea, only one fifth of government employees who passed the fifth-grade government exam were scientists and engineers.” Mr. Kim suggested the government increase the open appointment of scientists and engineers. “Knowledge-based societies can prosper with ‘electronic democracy’ which reflects diverse values,” Mr. Roh said. “Establishing an electronic government can improve transparency and efficiency. “The National Technology and Science Council should derive core technologies that can create new industries. For that purpose, the government will prepare efficient measures to assist companies in their research and development efforts.” by Seo Seung-wook