In response to the government's proposal to transition the Japan Science Council to an independent corporation from the national government, the Science Council held an extraordinary general meeting on the 9th and issued a statement calling for continued consultation, stating that "the reform plan presented by the government has not been sufficiently consulted."
The Science Council of Japan held an extraordinary general meeting in Minato-ku, Tokyo on September 9, which was attended by approximately 140 members, including online participants.
With regard to the Science Council, a panel of experts established by the government last month presented a proposal for the organizational form of the Academic Council if it becomes an independent legal entity from the government, including the establishment of a committee composed of external experts with knowledge of management and operation in order to strengthen the governance of the organization.
The academic council has objected to this, saying, "The proposed plan can be implemented without incorporation."
At the extraordinary general meeting, there were a number of members who attended the meeting, such as "I am worried that financial resources are not guaranteed" and "I am concerned that reforming the organization through incorporation will effectively justify the issue of refusal of appointments."
Based on these opinions, the Science Council issued a statement calling for continued consultation, stating that "the reform proposal presented by the government has not been sufficiently discussed."
At a press conference after the extraordinary general meeting, Chairman Mamoru Mitsuishi said, "This is a very important moment, and I would like to reflect the opinions of the members and speak at the panel of experts."