Mekong Institute (MI) rolled out its national e-training program on “Capacity Building on National Innovation Plan Development” to help government, academic, and private sector representatives contribute to the formulation of a national innovation plan in Myanmar.  

“Science and technology innovation (STI) is essential for economic development and social progress,” Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, MI Executive Director, said in his opening statement. He enjoined participants to review MI’s modules, as these detail innovative approaches and efficient systems that will contribute to increased productivity, industrialization, and job creation.

Supported by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, 12 Myanmar participants will be introduced to basic concepts of innovation and major components of innovation policy from November 9 to 13, 2020. Specifically, they will be exposed to approaches that will strengthen research and development, smoothen coordination and linkages among stakeholders, and advance practical policies for the development of a strategic roadmap and master plan for STI.

The e-training is part of the “Capacity Building on Technology and Innovation Policy Development in the Lancang-Mekong Region” project. Following the completion of the online training course, participants will implement their action plans in Myanmar before reconvening in April 2021 at MI’s Synthesis and Evaluation workshop to assess the progress of their respective action plan implementation, as well as to share good practices and lessons learned.