| Description: |
BACKGROUND
Within the context of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) cooperation program for developing and least developed countries and in cooperation with Japan Patent Office (JPO) under the Japan Funds-in-Trust arrangements for Industrial Property for Africa and the Least Developed Countries, it is proposed to organize a Regional Workshop on the use of Utility Model and Industrial Design for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in ARIPO member states. This activity is being organized in cooperation with the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO).
Consequently following discussions between officials of the Japan Patent Office, the Regional Bureau for Africa and ARIPO, it is proposed to hold the three-day Workshop in Harare, Zimbabwe, from June 24 to 26, 2015.
OBJECTIVES:
To provide a platform for officials from a select IP offices, SME’s, inventors, designers from the region :
- to make known to potential users the utility model system and the industrial design system;
- to exchange views on the benefits of using utility models and designs for small, micro and medium-sized enterprises with regional and international experts; and
- to foster innovation and creativity in the SMEs in Africa by raising awareness of these systems |