DIRECTORATE of Research Management and Innovation, DRMI, at Lagos State University has partnered with the National Office for Technology Acquisition And Promotion (NOTAP) to organise a two-day training workshop aimed at enhancing the knowledge of staff members on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and the commissioning of the Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Transfer Office (IPRTTO).
The workshop, held on Monday, May 13 and Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Senate Chamber, 1st floor, Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate building, LASU Main Campus, Ojo, was attended by members of the University's management.
The primary objective of the workshop was to equip academic staff members with valuable insights and understanding of technology transfer, commercialisation, and the significance of Intellectual Property Rights. The event was inaugurated by Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello mni, NPOM, the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, who expressed her gratitude to the distinguished guests and resource persons in attendance.
Prof. Olatunji-Bello acknowledged the efforts of Prof. Adejuwon Adeneye, the Director of DRMI, in establishing the IPRTTO. The collaboration with NOTAP and the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology in setting up this office will enable LASU to develop a strong intellectual property portfolio, encompassing patents, copyrights, and technology licensing.
The workshop featured two lecture series, namely "Intellectual Property Asset Management" delivered by Mrs C.M. ANIE-OSUAGWU, and "IP Policy For R&D Purposes" delivered by Mr E.D. Archibong, the Deputy Director of Technology Acquisition & Research Coordinator (TARC) at NOTAP.
Dr Idoreyin Imiyoho, the Acting Director-General of NOTAP, who was represented by Mrs Caroline M. Anie-Osuagwu, provided an overview of intellectual property and NOTAP's role in promoting intellectual property in Nigeria.
A significant milestone was achieved during the workshop when Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello officially commissioned the LASU Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Transfer Office (IPRTTO). In her address, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the workshop would bridge the gap between the University and the industry, facilitating the implementation of innovative ideas that can make a difference in society.
Prof. Olatunji-Bello encouraged all participants to share the knowledge they gained with other staff members, adopting a "Train the Trainers" approach to ensure widespread understanding and utilisation of Intellectual Property Rights.
On the second day of the workshop, participants engaged in lectures on "Drafting of Patent Specifications" delivered by Engr. E. I. Moghalu, the Deputy Director of TARC, and "Patent Databases and Search Techniques" delivered by Mr Kenny Ayoade Shalom, the Technology Officer at TARC. The sessions were followed by a question and answer segment, providing participants with the opportunity to clarify their understanding of Intellectual Property Rights.
The workshop concluded with Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), representing Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello. Prof. Omobitan expressed appreciation to all the resource persons present and encouraged the participants to effectively apply the knowledge they acquired. Certificates were then presented to all the attendees.
Mr Emmanuel A. FANU, the Registrar of LASU, represented by Mr Samuel Otesanya, the Deputy Registrar, ASE, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all stakeholders for their support and contributions to the success of the workshop.
