Home > Policy > White Paper, Notice, Announcement > White Paper > WHITE PAPER ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY2003 > Foreword

  As we approach the third year of the Second Science and Technology Basic Plan that commenced in FY2001,Japan's science and technology are hoped to further development of.Japan is required to escape from its traditional position as a follower of the West and to forge its own leading-edge scientific and technological sectors as a world frontrunner,and have been rising expectations for the creation of new added value based on scientific and technological knowledge that can serve to break up the sense of isolation now threatening Japan.

  Last year brought wonderful news for Japan.The news regarded the Nobel Prizes awarded to Masatoshi Koshiba and Koichi Tanaka.The double award,which also marked the third year in succession for a Japanese to receive a Nobel Prize,gave hope and pride to many people in Japan.If Japan is to attain a bright future,we need to build a society in Japan that is capable of turning out many more such people who are worthy of global acclaim.

  This year's White Paper on Science and Technology takes the theme of"Human Resources in Science and Technology Needed by Japan in the Future,"based on the recognition that people who create and utilize knowledge are the foundation for realization of a creative science and technology nation in Japan.This White Paper discusses issues related to the need for Japan to build up a society where improved treatment of people engaged in science and technology,and of their activities environment,rewards researchers and technicians for their efforts and skills,and to the development of advanced professional education,etc.,to nurture world-class research personnel,so as to realize a society that is capable of attracting excellent human resources into the world of science and technology and of bringing out their skills to the maximum degree,for a"society where scientific and technological human resources can shine."

  We hope that the White Paper will be of assistance to the people of Japan in understanding science and technology trends in Japan and abroad.Moreover,the White Paper also serves the government as a guideline for promotion of the human resources issue and other aspects of science and technology.

June2003 Atsuko Toyama Minister of Education,Culture,Sports,Science,and Technology