WIPO-OAPI-University of Yaoundé II: Commit to Enhancing IP Knowledge and Expertise in Africa
October 3, 2024
The 14th edition of the Joint Master’s Program in Intellectual Property (MIP), conducted in collaboration with the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) and the University of Yaoundé II, and supported by the Funds-In-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global (FIT/Japan IP Global), has concluded with resounding success. This program, renowned for its focus on intellectual property (IP) law and practice, continues to make significant strides in enhancing IP knowledge and expertise in Africa.
Overview of the MIP
On March 8, 2010 WIPO, OAPI, and the University of Yaoundé II in Cameroon formalized a collaborative agreement to offer a Joint Master’s Degree in Intellectual Property tailored to the academic needs of participants from the French-speaking African region. Accredited by the University of Yaoundé II, the program began on October 1, 2010, with initial coursework delivered through WIPO’s Distance Learning platform, followed by in-person classes at the University of Yaoundé II and practical training at OAPI. A key feature of the program is its practical skills training at OAPI, which equips graduates with the essential skills required for careers in government, academia, and industry.
Exploring the MIP
To tackle the shortage of IP professionals in Africa, the MIP educates and equips students and young professionals with essential IP knowledge and technical skills. The program is designed to address regional needs and perspectives by offering comprehensive training in various fields of IP.
The curriculum provides an in-depth exploration of IP topics and is delivered by a distinguished team of academicians, legal practitioners, IP professors, and experts from universities and IP offices across Africa and Japan. The unique approach to teaching ensures that participants receive high-quality education and practical insights to meet the growing demand for IP expertise in the region.
14th Edition of the MIP Program
The 14th edition of the MIP program commenced on October 2, 2023, and successfully concluded on June 28, 2024. The program attracted 39 highly motivated students from 11 different African countries. To support these students, FIT/Japan IP Global provided 12 scholarships.
On January 26, 2024, Mr. Kei Kawakami, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Cameroon, delivered the opening remarks at the University of Yaoundé II. During the residential phase, participants benefited from an online lecture on the Japanese IP system presented by Ms. Mari Mori, Deputy Director of the Regional Cooperation Section (Middle East and Africa) at the International Cooperation Division, and Mr. Soichiro Endo, Senior Specialist for Industrial Property Rights at the Japan Patent Office’s IP Promotion Division.
The graduation ceremony took place at OAPI on June 28, 2024, where all participants successfully completed the MIP program. Mr. Kiyohiko Ikeda, Chargé d'Affaires ad interim, the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Cameroon delivered congratulatory remarks at the ceremony. The graduates are anticipated to play pivotal roles in advancing the teaching, use, and protection of intellectual property across Africa.
