Millions will be invested in a new programme aimed at improving quality of life in Poland, Science and Higher Education Minister Jarosław Gowin has said.

The National Centre for Research and Development will inject PLN 500 million (EUR 118 million) into the programme of support for socio-economic research.

Gowin wants public institutions to team up with universities to devise and implement solutions to challenges faced by public administration.

As Poland faces a demographic crisis, with a low birth rate and rapidly aging population, Gowin hopes the family ministry or Social Insurance Institution will get involved.

“Thanks to these funds they will develop solutions which will serve to support Poland’s demographics,” Gowin said.

Eligible consortia should be made up of at least two universities or other scientific organisations and one institution which can implement the research, such as a local government.

Between 14 August and 12 September, bidders will be able to apply for up to PLN 30 million as the programme – called Gospostrateg, a portmanteau of the Polish words for economy and strategy – opens its first competition with a pool of PLN 150 million. (vb/pk)

Source: PAP