Promoting science and technology is every bit as important as improving the education system in general, according to Tsuneo Suzuki, the newly appointed education, culture, sports, science and technology minister.
"This is really a key to the future of Japan," the 67-year-old Suzuki said in a recent interview.
The government is implementing a five-year plan through 2010 to strengthen science and technology research and development — at a cost of ¥25 trillion.