A forum to help formulate an effective Intellectual Property (IP) in Research and Development Policy is underway in Port Moresby.
The two-day event, from September 1-2, was launched today in Port Moresby at the Papua New Guinea National Research Institute by Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Francis Marus.
The forum is jointly supported by PNG Science & Technology Secretariat, the Constitutional Law Reform Commission and the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA).
The event aims to share the current status of regulation of IP in relation to research and development, identify the gaps that need policies and prioritise a work plan with timeline and responsible agencies.
Discussions from the forum will assist to formulate a robust and effective IP in Research & Development Policy.
An Intellectual Property Policy in research and development can contribute to enhancing research and innovation and application of knowledge to meet the social, economic and environmental demands of society.
Marus told participants: "I am delighted that the discussions will open another chapter in our policy dialogue in our understanding and perspective of IP in the context of research and development in PNG.
"It is my desire that your discussions are productive and that we give important attention to research and development to ensure the future security and economic sustainability of PNG."
Presenters at the forum include Secretary of the Constitutional Law Reform Commission, Dr Eric Kwa, Amelia Naáru of the Intellectual Property Office and Dr Miranda Forsyth of the Australia National University.