The Azorean Parliament approved on Thursday the proposal for legislation establishing the legal scheme of the Azores Scientific and Technological System (SCTA) and the respective financial system to award financial incentives.'

The initiative, as explained the Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures, aims to "consolidate the framework" of the Integrated Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation (PICTI), established some years ago by a Resolution of the Government, which only comprises one incentive system.

According to José Contente, this new framework "turns out to be more dignifying for regional legislation" in this field and it also defines a specific incentive system.

Enhancement in Science and Technology (S&T), cooperation and establishment of partnerships in Research, Development and Innovation (RD&D), qualification of human resources for the Knowledge Society and update in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are the four priority axes to be supported under the incentive scheme, said the Regional Secretary.

According to José Contente, "we are dealing with a diploma that efficiently oversees the issues related to Azores Scientific and Technological System, making the best use of the experience gained."

This legislation defines SCTA as "the set of human institutional, material and financial resources which are organised for the production and promotion of scientific knowledge and information, through research and technological development, transfer of knowledge, advanced training and qualification and the dissemination of scientific and technological culture."

The institutions that make up the SCTA are divided into three subsystems: scientific research organisations, technological infrastructures and Science and Technology Dissemination infrastructures (SC&D).

SCTA also encompasses higher education institutions headquartered in the Azores, public and private coordination, management bodies (S&T) as well as Research and Development partnerships (R&D).

In turn, the system to award financial incentives under the SCTA is designated as PRO-SCIENTIA and aims to strengthen the scientific and technological potential of the Azores, stimulate research in relevant areas, reinforce the participation of companies in the SCTA and promote the economic optimisation of R&D activities.

Stimulating the creation of transregional and international synergies that project the Azores in the European Research Space, qualify human resources in the field of science, promote scientific and technological culture and ensure widespread access to the Knowledge Society are the main goals of PRO-SCIENTIA.

The entry into force of this legislation, which will take place on the day following its publication, repeals the Resolution of the Council of the Government no.41/2003 of April 3 and the respective implementing order. The transitory regulations in force concerning the funds granted or the applications already accepted will remain in force.