Design of a model for systematic research development and commercialization of intellectual property A critical analysis of the Harare Institute of Technology

Abstract

In most developing nations, universities, industry, and government work in silos. As a result, the rate of industrialization and economic growth is greatly affected. However, if we can create a well-structured enabling environment in which the three entities can work synergistically for the creation of a techno-preneurial environment of innovative technologies for national growth, then the national industrial and economic growth can be highly and significantly improved. In a knowledge-driven economy environment, Innovation and a technopreneurial culture are necessary elements for economic growth. Knowledge and culture are essential resources necessary to create wealth from research and development outputs leading to creation of new industries. However, challenges linked to the protection of research, development, and innovation outputs and their ultimate commercialization as well as guaranteeing business success in an ever-changing economic environment needs to be managed through an Intellectual Property rights framework. The goal of creation of an Interlectual Property (IP) policy is to promote creation of innovations and safeguard their existence. An IP policy without an engagement framework results in a premeditated policy failure. newline