WIPO Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with SARIMA

February 20, 2024

The Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) is a stakeholder organization dedicated to advancing the management of research and innovation (R&I) within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, aiming to foster social and economic development. SARIMA primarily collaborates with individuals overseeing research and facilitating technology transfer, especially those associated with publicly funded institutions, as well as with agencies and organizations supporting R&I initiatives.

SARIMA and WIPO share a mutual interest in enhancing the management of intellectual property in the SADC region and supporting broader national systems of innovation. Both organizations acknowledge the significant role of R&I in building a knowledge-based economy and driving economic development.

On October 19, 2023, WIPO and SARIMA formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU outlines primary objectives and joint initiatives, including raising awareness, providing training, exchanging information, promoting tools, events, and services, and strengthening Technology Transfer Office (TTO) networks in the SADC region.

A notable achievement of WIPO – SARIMA collaboration in 2023 was the implementation of an intensive On-the-Job Training Program tailored for 12 technology transfer specialists from the SADC region. This program occurred across six Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) in South Africa.