U n NESTO: Over $1 billion needed to rebuild Ukraine's public scientific infrastructure

It will cost more than $1 billion to rebuild Ukraine's public scientific infrastructure, according to a new United Nations report that found that about 1500 buildings belonging to scientific institutions have been damaged or destroyed during the last two years of war.

The report, published Monday by the UN Education, Science and Culture Organisation, better known as U NESTO found that 1,443 buildings and labs belonging to 177 institutions and universities have been damaged or destroyed by war along with more than 750 pieces of research equipment. .

The organisation estimates $1.26 billion will be required to restore public scientific research infrastructure, including $980m for universities responsible for 52% of public research.

“While the situation becomes increasingly critical for the scientific community, we must protect and support their research in Ukraine”, U general director said in a statement. NESTO, Audrey Azoulay.

“Scientists, engineers and other experts will be essential for the country's recovery, not to mention what this sector represents as a valuable source of innovation and discovery for the rest of the world. ”

According to the report, war has had extensive implications on Ukraine's scientific infrastructure, which was once internationally recognised, especially with regard to computer science, nuclear physics and astronomy.

A total of 10,429 Ukrainian scientists and teachers have either moved in or been forced to emigrate because of the war, he said, adding that 1,518 scientists have volunteered for fighting.