A high-level meeting on intellectual property (IP) education was held in Kampala, Uganda on May 27, 2025. The meeting was attended by representatives from the WIPO Academy, the Ministry of Education and Sports of Uganda, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation of Uganda, the Secretariat of the Office of the President of Uganda, the Uganda Registration Services Bureau, and other education and innovation officials.
The meeting addressed ways to integrate IP education into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education across the country using the WIPO Academy IP For Youth & Teachers Program and the WIPO- Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) framework.
The representatives agreed to integrate IP into Uganda’s curriculum to drive innovation and entrepreneurship and explored the possibility of a tailored WIPO Academy-AIM model and financing frameworks for youth-driven innovation hubs. Following the meeting, an official study will be conducted by WIPO experts to assess the setup of thematic incubators linked to key local value chains and how to establish an innovation fund for primary and secondary schools. Additionally, a dedicated national innovation body in Uganda will be created. At present, a cooperation framework is being developed between WIPO, AIM India, and national stakeholders in Uganda to guide the implementation of the joint model which will include the establishment of tinkering labs, incubators, and innovation hubs in schools. The spaces envisioned will provide young learners with tools needed to experiment, prototype, and protect their ideas, fostering innovation from an early age.
What the partners are saying?
With IP education, you are now in the frontlines of liberating the minds Africa. An African idea is just as valid, and we need the right education to believe in and safeguard our innovations.
Honorable Minister Norbert Mao, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
STEM education is the bedrock of innovation but innovation without protection is like a seed without soil. IP rights such as patents, trademark and copyright provide the legal framework that transforms ideas into tangible benefits for society. Let’s prioritize IP education.
Mr. Alex Anganye, Registrar General, Uganda Registration Services Bureau
Teaching and learning science in this country is especially important now. The impact of integrating IP education into science delivery will be significant.
Mr. James Droti Asil, Curriculum Research and Development Specialist, Ministry of Education