IUPAC Releases Strategic Plan
The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) has announced
the completion of its first Strategic Plan. This plan, which is intended
to guide development of the Union's programs during the current biennium,
1998-99, is built around a mission statement and ten long-range goals,
each supported by a number of strategic thrusts. In addition to initiating
and continuing major thrusts on chemical nomenclature and terminology,
atomic weights and many other critically evaluated data in which IUPAC
is recognized as the world authority, the Union will represent, when appropriate,
the interests of chemistry in international governmental and non-governmental
forums. According to IUPAC President Joshua Jortner, goals have also been
established for the Union's contributions to the advancement of worldwide
research in the chemical sciences, the promotion of the service of chemistry
to society, and the facilitation of the development of effective channels
of communication in the global chemistry community. "The Union feels
it is important to promote the chemical aspects of industry in its contributions
to sustainable development, wealth creation and improvement in the quality
of life," he added.
Jortner pointed out that the improvement of chemical education is another
IUPAC goal. "The Union recognizes that the needs of the developed
countries and the developing countries in this regard are quite different.
Scientific literacy is the major concern in the developed world. IUPAC's
role is to act as a clearinghouse for information about national programs.
Less Developed Countries need help and support at all levels of education
and training."
Jortner emphasized that "IUPAC strives towards globalization of
its activities with the participation of the entire world's chemistry community.
The broadening of the geographical base will be accomplished by recruiting
new National Adhering Organizations. In addition, new mechanisms need to
be set up to insure worldwide dissemination of information about IUPAC's
work and the drawing of human capital to its activities. The Internet is
seen as an opportunity to greatly improve the Union's efforts in both these
areas."
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