Event Overview

This event, scheduled for August 29, 2025, will explore the critical intersections of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and Research Management. The focus will be on the options, challenges, and prospects for universities in Africa. The event aims to provide actionable strategies and further areas of inquiry for institutions.

The discourse will examine the increasing role of IPR in shaping societal development, particularly in education and research. It will consider global and continental regulatory dynamics, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the AU Agenda 2063. The adoption of the AfCFTA Intellectual Property Protocol in 2023 will also be discussed.

Universities in Africa have a significant role to play in driving innovation to address societal problems. The event seeks to clarify how universities can strategically utilize IPR as part of research management to derive optimal benefits from research outputs. This will help universities evolve into engines of innovation.

Keynote Speaker: Prof. Saudin J. Mwakaje

The keynote speaker is Prof. Saudin J. Mwakaje from the University of Dar es Salaam. He will be presenting on the role of IPR in research management within African universities. His address will cover the correlation between research management and IPR, effective IPR employment, and potential setbacks and prospects.

Prof. Mwakaje's abstract highlights the importance of IPR frameworks in the creation, protection, and commercialization of knowledge-based assets. He will explore models for incentivizing academic entrepreneurship and address structural, legal, and cultural challenges. The discussion will also propose actionable strategies and further areas of inquiry.

Prof. Mwakaje cautions that "one size may not fit all," emphasizing the importance of national and regional policy and legal frameworks. These frameworks are significant considerations in choosing the appropriate model for universities. His expertise will provide valuable insights for attendees.

Speaker Biography

Prof. Saudin J. Mwakaje is an Associate Professor of Law at the University of Dar es Salaam School of Law in Tanzania. He is a researcher, trainer, consultant, and legal practitioner admitted to practice law in Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar. His extensive experience makes him a valuable asset to this event.

Currently, Prof. Mwakaje serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Arts Council (BASATA). He is also a member of the Board of Appeal of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) for 2024-2025. Additionally, he is the Chief Corporate Counsel and Secretary to the Council of the University of Dar es Salaam.

Prof. Mwakaje is a founding partner of NexLaw Advocates, a law firm based in Dar es Salaam. His areas of expertise include Intellectual Property Law, investment, and Corporate Transactional Law. He holds a PhD in Intellectual Property and LL.M degrees from multiple institutions.

Registration and Logistics

To attend this event, please register through the provided link. Registration ensures your participation and helps with event planning. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into IPR and research management.

The event will be held at the Ground Floor, Legon Centre for International Affairs & Diplomacy (LECIAD) Building, K. M. Hodasi Rd., University of Ghana, Legon. The address is GA-489-0411. Please plan your travel accordingly.

For any inquiries, you can contact the organizers via email at arua@ug.edu.gh. They will be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Ensure to register early to secure your spot.