International Commission of Science and Technology
The Dominican Republic International Advisory Commission of Science & Technology - IACST (in Spanish Comisión Internacional Asesora de Ciencia y Tecnología- CIACT) is a government agency created by the President of the Dominican Republic, Dr. Leonel Fernández in September 2004 by decree number 1133-04. This decree was passed, establishing the International Commission of Science & Technology, as the body in charge with the task of preparing the Dominican Republic international strategies on Science and Technology.
The creation of the ICST required a comprehensive strategic plan to support and foster the Dominican Republic national development in science and technology. The mandated elements of the plan are:
- The development of a Dominican Republic science and technology policy
- The identification of strengths and weaknesses in the basic science resources and research capabilities in the Dominican Republic
- The identification of methods to coordinate and encourage collaborative efforts between international research entities with the Dominican Republic, whether public or private
- The designation of areas for potential scientific and technological development, including those affecting, either directly or indirectly, the economic development of the Dominican Republic nation
- Recommendations on how to improve and strengthen partnerships among the private sector, higher education, and government with international organizations
- Recommendations on how to improve the infrastructure for research and research training
- Recommendations on a system to transfer international technology developments to the public and private sector in the Dominican Republic
- Recommendations on legislative changes required to improve the overall science and technology environment in the country
- Other recommendations on science and technology policy and programs as appropriate.