THE Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ) says its operations are being hampered by budgetary constraints occasioned by delays in the release of funds from Treasury.
RCZ was established in 1986 to promote, direct, supervise and coordinate research into various socio-economic areas. One of the major functions of RCZ is to advise the government on issues of research for sustainable development. RCZ activities are regulated by the Research Act.
In an interview with NewsDay, RCZ chairperson Zororo Muranda said some of the council’s research was not completed due to delays in the disbursement of funds.
“While we have witnessed substantial growth in research funding in the country by the second republic, in some instances, we have experienced delays in disbursement of funds, thereby affecting the completion of some research projects,” Muranda said.
“As the apex Research Council, we continue to engage Treasury through our line ministry and remain optimistic that once funds are realised much ground will be covered.”
Muranda said research funding was the mainstay for sustainable national socio-economic development.
The level of a country's investment in research is known to have a direct correlation to the country's level of socio-economic development.
Muranda said RCZ had, however, been partnering several firms keen to conduct research, with some research being paid for.
- Zera ponders over energy crisis
- Underfunding of national projects irks Research Council
- Commission aims to invest in technology
- Poor funding cripples Research Council
Keep Reading
“On the same note, RCZ continues to call on the local industry to come on board and contribute to funding research of great national impact,” Muranda said.
