The Road to the SDGs

exploitation of IP, but to protect and safeguard IsDB’s intangible assets. In addition, having an IP system will help IsDB avoid any potential legal risk that might arise from unintentionally infringing third parties’ IP. X In 2021, IsDB began cooperating with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), targeting innovators on the ground in MCs. The aim is to activate Technology and Innovation Support Centres which will provide direct support and help to innovators and entrepreneurs, including IP official registration, patent search and commercialisation assistance. South-South cooperation is one of the activities planned for the WIPO Match initiative, which will allow innovators to share their ideas with potential investors as well as other interested parties. ACHIEVEMENTS X IsDB built a high-level framework to start the nucleus of an IP programme which eventually will build the capability and capacity for managing and administering IP as well as its related aspects. X The roles and functionalities of the intended IP programme will extend to IsDB’s MCs. X The IP unit will mostly focus on prompting IP awareness and will provide training, workshops and networking. In the future it may be used to secure IP for selected projects. X Currently, the IP unit is partially functioning and a high-level roadmap is being developed. The plans include building the IP Operations and Strategy manual to illustrate the unit structure, roles, functions and activities at both IsDB and MC levels. X A structured programme to promote IP awareness within IsDB has been triggered and online training for STI staff has been initiated. In addition, training will be available for selected staff in other departments of IsDB. X IsDB organised a joint webinar with WIPO in early 2021. The webinar titled ‘Towards Building a Stronger Innovation Ecosystem by Enhancing Intellectual Property’ was attended by high-level officials, notably IsDB President, Dr Bandar Hajjar, WIPO Director General, Mr Daren Tang, and Senior STI Advisor to IsDB President, Dr Hayat Sindi. INVESTMENT X IsDB is investing in the success of the programme through various initiatives, including an IP awareness webinar targeting a wider audience in MCs. X The webinar was scheduled in cooperation with WIPO and featured high-level speakers. X Key IP stakeholders were invited to the webinar, including innovators, IP official decision makers, universities and research centres in MCs. P R O T E C T I O N O F I P R I G H T S Protection of IP rights is important in bringing innovative technological change, facilitating economic growth and enhancing social development [ 83 ] T H E R O A D T O T H E S D G s | P R O G R E S S A N D A C H I E V E M E N T S