Prime Minister Andrew Holness has called on players in the science and technology fields to take note of the urgency needed for their innovation and creativity.

Citing the maxim that necessity is the mother of invention, he said that necessity implies the urgency with which societies must innovate and create technological solutions, that drive economic growth and benefit citizens.

Speaking at Thursday’s ceremony for the presentation of the national medal for science, technology and innovation, Mr Holness pointed out that a policy for science, technology and innovation was approved in February this year.

The policy set out the framework of actions to be achieved by 2029.

Mr Holness said stakeholders charged with implementing the plan, should do so with a sense of urgency.

He said technological innovation would help Jamaica attain economic independence.