Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Training to Empower Staff and Students

Machakos University recently held a comprehensive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) training aimed at equipping academic staff and students with the vital knowledge on the protection and patenting of innovations, inventions and creative works. The training was facilitated by Prof. Jones Agwata, The Director of Research, Innovation and Technology Transfer, who brought a wealth of experience and expertise in intellectual property management.

The IPR training is part of the university’s continuous efforts to foster a culture of innovation and research among its academic community. With the rise of technological advancements and creativity, safeguarding intellectual property has become increasingly essential. The training covered key areas including patenting processes, copyrights, trademarks, industrial designs and the importance of protecting academic and research output.

In his remarks, Prof. Agwata emphasized the critical role of IPR in enhancing the university’s contribution to national and global development. He noted that understanding intellectual property rights is fundamental for students and researchers as they embark on innovation-driven projects. “We are committed to ensuring that our staff and students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of intellectual property, from innovation to commercialization,” he added.

Participants were guided through the steps of filing patents and protecting their works, while learning about the legal frameworks governing intellectual property both locally and internationally. This practical knowledge is expected to empower students and researchers to maximize the potential of their innovations while ensuring their rights are protected.

The training also highlighted the growing involvement of Machakos University students and staff in various innovation initiatives and research projects. The university is actively encouraging more students to participate in research that addresses local and global challenges, with the potential for commercialization and real-world impact.

This training is part of a broader institutional effort to foster a robust research and innovation culture at Machakos University. As more students and staff engage in cutting-edge research, the knowledge gained from this training will prove indispensable in ensuring their work is protected and that they benefit from their innovations.