The National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine: Social Role, Present-Day Performance, Problems and Their Solutions (scientific and analytical report)

Abstract

This report is can be regarded is relevant due to the necessity for resolute actions to enhance R&D focus of the science and technology policy in Ukraine, capable to give an impulse for the postwar renaissance of the Ukrainian economy on the innovation basis and for the implementation of current objectives in social and economic sphere, national security and defense. A brief retrospective review of the formation of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of Ukraine is made, with demonstrating the conformity of its organizational and functional structure to global tendencies in academic and university models of R&D. Data on the current performance of the NAS of Ukraine and main determinants of the negative dynamics and the weakening impact of the Academy on taking important government decisions are analyzed. The author’s opinion of the expediency, purpose and content of the reform in the NAS of Ukraine in view of the radical increase in the Academy’s contribution in R&D support to the Ukraine’s renaissance is given. It is demonstrated that the organizational model of the Academy, created by B.Ye. Paton upon becoming its president, did offer a scheme for generation and practical implementation of R&D results in the conditions of the administrative and command economy, compatible in conceptual terms with modern approaches to building the national innovation system in advanced countries. A list of key problems impeding the development of the NAS of Ukraine is given, and their solutions are proposed.