Really Ministry of Science: Risks in Brasilia

Some critics may say that the minister alone is not solely responsible for the budget, and that the ministerial change will not have a significant impact. It is true that the ministry does not consist of only one individual, but the effect of the exchange can be greater than one can imagine.

We must remember the indicators of the second level. There are several key positions, such as the presidency of the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), funder of studies and projects (Finep), and the entire administrative structure directly linked to the Ministry.

These agencies are largely responsible for managing the country’s science budget, and many positions are now filled by experienced scientists, who know the realities of researchers and the challenges they face, which is a valid and important position on the part of the current federal government. .

In addition, the agencies are also responsible for developing long-term programs and strategies, which is an essential initiative to ensure the preservation and impact of Brazilian research projects.

I discussed a few months ago with the example of the James Webb Space Telescope, which had been planned for several decades, and how a project of this magnitude could only be achieved in a stable environment with guarantees of continued funding for large projects over a long period.

By presenting the MCTI as a bargaining chip, we could jeopardize the idea of the Brazilian flag as a state project, which is central to our sovereignty.