The WIPO Japan Office (WJO), with the support of the Funds-in-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global (FIT Japan IP Global) implemented a short-term fellowship program in the field of intellectual property (IP) for international students currently enrolled at universities and graduate schools in Japan.
A total of eight students from 7 different countries Indonesia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Samoa, Syrian Arab Republic and Zambia participated in the program. They were divided into two groups of four and undertook a five-day IP training program hosted by Shiga International Patent Office and Soei Patent & Law Firm.
Taking into account each participant’s research background and areas of interest, WIPO and the host firms customized the training program to cover a wide range of topics—from fundamental IP knowledge to practical professional skills. The program included expert lectures on IP and IP strategy, patent search exercises, case studies, and a study visit to the Japan Patent Office (JPO).
On the final day, participants delivered presentations on their respective national IP systems and success stories, applying the insights gained throughout the training.
All participants demonstrated strong motivation and interest in intellectual property. Several expressed their aspirations to serve as a bridge between Japan and their home countries or to contribute to their nations’ economic development through IP.
Following the completion of the program, participants reported a high level of satisfaction, highlighting in particular the value of networking opportunities and the practical relevance of the training.