AN ANALYSIS OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The use of S&T to achieve accelerated socio-economic development in many developing countries has largely been unconvincing. Essentially, science has often been applied to attain short-term goals when most of its benefits are seen in the long term. Furthermore, injudicious grouping of innovation with the tools of science and technology has further confused their definitions and functions. This paper therefore explores the relationship of these factors in Caribbean policy development and execution. Emerging from this is the notion that science is sufficiently different from both technology and innovation for each to merit distinctive handling. It is being advanced that technology policies should lead in policy formulations, while science policies should provide the logical underpinnings and knowledge to permit relevant technological selection, adaptation and use. In this model, government is seen as the main S&T infrastructure pivot encouraging linkages along value chains to create dynamic systems of innovation. Understanding the creative benefits of the scientific research method in governance and business is seen as vital.