Research networking

The objective of research networking is to enhance collaboration at all levels using ICTs and the Internet. There are some good reasons for encouraging research networking using the Internet.

Researchers are likely already aware of the potential on ICTs and of the Internet. However, efforts have to be maintained to ensure that existing research networks, including the Mongolian Academy of Sciences and related organizations have the resources and connectivity to participate in research networks in the region and worldwide.

There are three main research institutions in Mongolia: the Academy of Sciences, the Science, Technology and Production Corporation and the National Council of Science and Technology. As of end 1997, there were 1790 researchers of which 1575 with a Ph.D. or equivalent working on 298 projects in science and technology . However, the proportion of GNP devoted to research is only 0.17%.

The advantages of enhancing research networking include:

• Helping researchers stay in touch and stay contemporary. This is especially important for young researchers newly returned to Mongolia who are at the greatest risk of feeling lost and losing their competitive and professional edge because they are no longer in touch with their colleagues and professions. The Internet allows them not only to remain connected to their areas of specialization, but also to their peers around the world.
• Research collaboration will in the long run enhance competitiveness of Mongolia in a global market place (see http://www.dante.net/cape/cape.html)
• Collaboration will also help partners establish a presence in Mongolia and in Asia
• The collaborating students and researchers of today will develop into the business partners of tomorrow (http://www.dante.net/cape/cape.html)