International Excellence School (IES) was Opened at Kutaisi International University (KIU), Dedicated to Intellectual Property Rights

Mr. Soso Giorgadze, Chairman of National Intellectual Property Center of Georgia – “Sakpatenti attended the opening event of the International Excellence School (IES) at Kutaisi International University. The international and local experts invited to the academic area of the International Excellence School will discuss the role and importance of intellectual property, workshops and practical sessions of various types will also be delivered. 

Sakpatenti Chairman welcomed the attendees and emphasized the role of intellectual property in higher education. He noted that similar events facilitate popularization of intellectual property among the youth, kindling interest in IP subject-matters and awareness of the importance of their protection. Sakpatenti Chairman spoke about the role of intellectual property in economy and science, namely, the knowledge-based economy, on the role of IP in the economic development of the country and how intangible assets are created and accumulated in the areas of education, science and industry. Mr. Soso Giorgadze highlighted the role of Kutaisi International University and noted that it will have a crucial impact on advancing the intellectual property field, generally, and inventions, in particular.

The event was attended by Ms. Tamar Ghvamichava, Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Youth of Georgia, Mr. Giorgi Khubua,  KIU Rector, Ms. Tamar Sanikidze, Executive Director of the “Innovation, Inclusion and Quality Project”, Mr. Shalva Kirtadze, Rector of Akaki Tsereteli State University, and Professor Tatiana Fumasoli, Professor of University College London (UCL).

Mr. Soso Giorgadze informed the audience gathered at the event about introduction of the International Master’s Program on intellectual property in Georgia. The Higher Education Sectoral Council on Management and Administration has already approved the draft sectoral characteristics. On the initiative of Sakpatenti and KIU, a new field of study – “Management of Intellectual Property and Innovation” will be added to the National Qualifications Framework at the Master’s level. It is planned to sign a trilateral memorandum between the World Intellectual Property Organization  (WIPO), Sakpatenti and KIU in the spring of the current year, whereas the Master’s program proper will be launched from  the autumn.

The Master’s program “Intellectual Property, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship” is aimed to train qualified specialists in the intellectual property  field on the local as well as international levels, which will facilitate significantly the development of the innovative ecosystem in Georgia. It is noteworthy that at present the WIPO Academy conducts similar joint Master’s programs with up to 20  reputable universities of the world.

It should be noted that the International Excellence School was opened today and will continue until January 26. The event is co-hosted by Kutaisi International University (KIU) and Akaki Tsereteli State University. The International Excellence School is held within the “Innovation, Inclusion and Quality Project” – Georgia I2Q (IBRD), implemented with the financial support and assistance of the World Bank (IBRD-IDA – World Bank Group) and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Youth of Georgia.