Yes, Popularization of science is important by the means of making students in schools aware of power of discoveries or inventions.
In many countries Science subjects may not be the main subjects in the thoughts for parents or teachers. Interest generated in this field will lead to bringing in more brains in this subject area, so more the people attach with Science more will be output of teaching and then further research.
"Nothing in science has any value to society if it is not communicated, and scientists are beginning to learn their social obligations". (Anne Roe, 1953)