Expectations for the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan : Importance of basic sciences(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Abstract

After the first and second phases of the Science and Technology Basic Plan, in which increase in R&D funding and prioritization of research topics, respectively, were realized, the third phase should emphasize basic sciences. Before the national universities were reorganized into Independent Administrative Corporations, many academics and researchers expressed a persuasive apprehension of decline in basic research. The Basic Plan should explicitly ensure that the universities pursue their proper mission.