7 hours ago
Yemen to launch National Knowledge, Innovation Index amid Intel exclusions
Sana'a – Saba:
Yemen is developing its own National Knowledge and Innovation Index (YKII), a strategic move aimed at accurately monitoring and directing the nation's capabilities in science, research, and technology.
This initiative comes as Yemen has been largely excluded from or given low rankings in international indices, often due to perceived political considerations, according to Dr. Abdulaziz al-Houri, Vice Chairman of the General Authority for Science, Research, Technology and Innovation.
Dr. al-Houri highlighted the urgent need for this national index, citing the absence of a comprehensive national framework for measuring knowledge and innovation, along with pressing economic and social challenges. The index is seen as crucial for supporting reconstruction and development, fostering cooperation between public and private sectors in research and development, encouraging investment, and keeping pace with global advancements. It will also enhance transparency, accountability, and the assessment of public policy impacts.
The Authority is collaborating with partners, notably the Central Statistical Organization, to finalize the YKII's draft. This index will identify knowledge gaps in Yemeni society, guide efforts to bridge them through informed policies, and provide a national database for evidence-based decision-making.
Expected Impact and Objectives:
The project is anticipated to bring wide-ranging benefits, including:
Improving education quality and outcomes to meet labor market and development needs.
Increasing the quantity and quality of research output, enhancing its relevance to societal challenges.
Stimulating innovation and creativity, and boosting competitiveness.
Contributing to sustainable development goals by leveraging knowledge and innovation.
Enhancing local competitiveness among educational, research, and production entities.
The primary objectives of the index are to:
Assess the current state of knowledge and innovation nationally.
Measure and track scientific, technological, and innovative progress.
Improve national and local innovation policies by identifying strengths and weaknesses.
Provide reliable information for policymakers, researchers, investors, and stakeholders.
Help re-prioritize efforts to encourage creativity, scientific research, and youth empowerment.
Index Framework and Next Steps:
The YKII's general framework comprises two main aspects:
Innovation Inputs: This includes six axes with 42 indicators covering education, research and development, investment, the knowledge workforce, communications and information technology, and institutions.
Innovation Outputs: This consists of three axes with 20 indicators focused on innovation, creativity, and knowledge.
Dr. al-Houri detailed the steps taken so far, which include studying evidence for composite indicators, examining global and regional indices, developing a methodology, and preparing an initial draft guide. Current and future steps involve finalizing the draft, piloting and testing the index, obtaining official approval, and finally, the launch of the National Knowledge and Innovation Index 2025.
Dr. al-Houri called upon all state institutions to enhance cooperation with the General Authority for Science, Research, Technology and Innovation, emphasizing its vital role in advancing innovation and creativity for Yemen's economic and social development.
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