Strengthening Academic-Industry Bonds: Securing Intellectual Property Rights
The Chairman of the Sindh Higher Education Commission, Professor Dr. SM Tariq Rafi, emphasized the commission’s endeavors in bridging the gap between academia and the business realm. The focus is on preventing talent loss from universities and securing intellectual products through Intellectual Property (IP) Rights.
Speaking at a two-day workshop organized by the University of Karachi’s Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization, Dr. Rafi highlighted the significance of this initiative for faculty capacity building on IP Rights. The workshop aimed to raise awareness among faculty members and scholars regarding the importance of IP rights in safeguarding research work.
Dr. Rafi encouraged participants to delve deeper into understanding IP rights, including their responsibilities, potential, and challenges. He acknowledged the challenges Pakistan faces in adhering to global copyright standards, stressing the necessity for legislation addressing IP rights in academia and research. Dr. Rafi assured support for teachers and researchers in registering their creative works under IP rights.
Highlighting the gap between academia and industries, Dr. Rafi stressed adapting the curriculum to meet market demands. He urged faculty members and university administrations to address this to enhance higher education and student experiences.
Meanwhile, KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi highlighted the university’s efforts to incorporate industry insights into its curriculum by engaging field experts at the department level. He emphasized that universities can offer sustainable solutions to industry challenges through research initiatives.
Dr. Syeda Hoor Ul Ain, the Director of ORIC, outlined the objective to aid faculty members and researchers in commercializing their research. The workshop sessions covered various aspects of IP rights, including copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and ethical issues, led by experts from the Intellectual Property Organization.