URSB, WIPO move to boost intellectual property awareness in Ugandan universities

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has launched a series of roving seminars at universities across Uganda under the Technology Innovation Support Centres (TISCs) initiative.

This initiative aligns with the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and aims to raise awareness and understanding of intellectual property (IP) rights among students, researchers, and innovators in higher education institutions nationwide.

The seminars serve as a platform to educate participants on the importance of IP protection, particularly patents, and provide practical insights into the patent application process.

By doing so, they empower young entrepreneurs and inventors to confidently navigate the complexities of intellectual property and protect their innovations.

Experts from URSB and WIPO engage participants in interactive discussions, presentations, and case studies during the seminars, helping them effectively grasp the basics of intellectual property management.

These sessions emphasize real-world applications, enabling participants to understand how intellectual property can play a crucial role in commercializing their ideas and enhancing their competitive edge in the market.

The seminars cover a range of topics, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), the significance of patents for universities and research institutions, strategies for using patents to obtain commercial returns, and accessing patent information.

Participants also learn from success stories that highlight the practical benefits of robust IP management.

Nyalleng Pii, Senior Program Officer at WIPO’s PCT International Cooperation Division, stated that the seminars aim to inspire innovators and creators in Uganda by promoting an inclusive global IP ecosystem through success stories and best practices.

Gilbert Agaba, Director of Intellectual Property at URSB, noted that participants would benefit from ongoing guidance and support from URSB and WIPO experts, as well as dedicated assistance with challenging issues, including using WIPO’s tools and services.

The roving seminars also foster collaboration between universities and the private sector, promoting an ecosystem that supports innovation.

By connecting academic institutions with industry stakeholders, the initiative encourages knowledge exchange and paves the way for potential partnerships that could lead to groundbreaking developments.

The inaugural seminar was held at Busitema University, with subsequent sessions planned for Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Through the TISCs initiative, young innovators are equipped with essential tools to protect their creations and succeed in their entrepreneurial ventures.

This partnership between URSB and WIPO not only strengthens Uganda’s intellectual property framework but also contributes to building a vibrant ecosystem that fosters creativity and economic growth.