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Washington, DC-- The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) recently issued a report requested by Science Committee Democrats and other Members of Congress on how the U.S. can maintain its prominence in science and technology and prosper in the competitive global marketplace.
Today Congressman David Wu and all other members of the Science Committee questioned the NAS investigating panel to explore its findings and recommendations. In short, the United States will not remain competitive in the global marketplace unless corrective action is taken in education, research and innovation policies.
"This report confirms that we need to do all we can to attract more students to the sciences to remain competitive in the global economy. Such an effort must start in our elementary and secondary schools, but we must also fund scientific research at a level that reflects this priority," stated Congressman Wu.
The NAS report entitled “Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Economic Future,” outlines a number of specific actions the U.S. can take to improve our innovation environment here at home. Most of the National Academies’ recommendations call for the federal government to invest more in scientific research, in K-12 teacher recruitment and preparation, and in attracting more students to careers in science and technology.
Before the report was published, Congressman Wu was already taking action. Earlier this year, Congressman Wu successfully amended legislation to directly address teacher recruitment needs for more secondary science, mathematics and technology teachers. Due to Congressman Wu's actions, colleges and universities around the country will be able to use federal dollars from teacher recruitment grants to establish dual degree programs. The program allows students to earn two bachelor's degrees at the same time, one in their chosen field and the other in education.
Congressman Wu has also had a strong record supporting federal investments in scientific research. Congressman Wu believes a sustained public and private investment in research and development will foster a skilled American workforce, stimulate new technologies and maintain U.S. dominance in vital industries - elements critical to retaining the United States' global economic leadership.
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