The meeting was chaired by First Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovations S. Radjabov and was attended by the leadership of the Innovation Development Agency, representatives of scientific and technical councils, as well as responsible officials from ministries and agencies.

In addition, responsible staff members of the Chamber of Accounts participated in the meeting, and Head of Department N. Imonqulov presented detailed information on the audit results.

As noted, in recent years significant efforts have been made in the country to develop an innovation ecosystem, expand the financing of scientific research, engage young people in innovation activities, and strengthen international cooperation.

In particular, 56 scientific solutions have been introduced into production, more than USD 120 million has been attracted within the framework of international cooperation, the number of scientific publications has increased by 34.6 percent, over 60,000 young people have been involved in innovation activities, and a total of 735 research projects have been implemented.

At the same time, the audit results revealed a number of existing problems in the sector. These include недостаточный уровень долгосрочного стратегического planning, ineffective mechanisms for the commercialization of innovations, the absence of public-private partnership projects in practice, low participation of the private sector, and insufficient cooperation between universities and industry.

It was also noted that in the processes of selecting and financing research projects there is a lack of transparency in selection procedures, delays in expert reviews, cases of conflict of interest, and instances of financing similar projects.

Furthermore, it was highlighted that efficiency remains low in the areas of startups and commercialization.

During the meeting, the Head of the Innovation Development Agency, A. Norov, provided information on the work carried out and on the measures developed to eliminate the identified shortcomings.

In his speech, the Agency’s head also emphasized that strict implementation of the planned measures to eliminate all shortcomings, strengthen financial discipline, and improve project efficiency will be ensured.

At the conclusion of the discussion, specific instructions were given to eliminate the identified shortcomings, prevent such cases in the future, fully implement audit recommendations, and strengthen the internal audit system.

The parties also agreed on priority areas to further strengthen cooperation, ensure openness and transparency, and improve the effectiveness of innovation activities.