The Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia, Givi Mikanadze, participated in the International Conference titled: “From Research to Results – The Role of Patents in the Transfer of Technologies”, which was opened by Levan Zhorzholiani, the Head of Administration of the Government of Georgia.
During his speech, Givi Mikanadze emphasized the importance of a long-term, fruitful partnership with the European Patent Agency (EPO) in terms of the development of the intellectual property system in Georgia and focused attention on the areas of the Ministry’s policy that promote the development of scientific and research activities.
“The theme of today’s conference is in full alignment with the main priorities of the Georgian Ministry of Education, Science and Youth, because our goal is to create an environment where knowledge transforms into innovation and then into real economic value,” said Givi Mikanadze.
According to the Minister, education, science, research, and innovation are closely linked and form a unified chain through which knowledge is developed and transformed into practical value. In this perspective, the effective management of intellectual property and the role of patents are of great importance.
“The patent is a kind of bridge that connects the research to the market. This connection is reflected in national policy and strategic documents. “In the United National Strategy for Education and Science 2022-2030, it has been emphasized that it is important for the higher education, research and innovation system to understand the concept of “mission third” and implement the concept of educational institutions in the management culture of educational institutions, which means advancing the role of universities in bringing knowledge to society and economy,” the Minister said.
President of the European Patent Office (EPO) Antonio Campinos, Deputy Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Nino Tsilosani, Chairman of the Patent Committee Soso Giorgadze, and Chief Director of the EPO Academy, Xavier Seuba, addressed the audience with a welcome speech.
Representatives from state agencies, the academic sphere, and international partners participated in the international conference. Participants discussed important issues such as: the importance of universities and research centers in advancing innovations; strengthening the innovation ecosystem; technology transfer mechanisms; and patents as tools for legal protection.
The second part of the conference will feature panel discussions where participants will discuss two core topics – the role of universities in the innovation ecosystem and innovation as a driving force of the economy.
Antonio Campinos’ visit was led by Georgia’s official address to join the European Patent Organization (EPO) with the European Patent Convention, which represents the prospect of full membership for the country. Before this step, a mechanism for the validation of European patents has been activated in Georgia, which ensures legal recognition of European patents in Georgia.
