Fostering innovation: the first AU-EU Virtual Workshop outlines how intellectual property rights promote innovation for Africa and Europe

On 28 November 2023, the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) hosted a Virtual Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), the first in a series of workshops that will take place over the next three years to implement the AU-EU Innovation Agenda. This new strategy aims to transform and increase the innovative capacity and achievements of African and European researchers and innovators into tangible results such as products, services, businesses and jobs. 

The event was attended by high-level representatives and facilitated by the European Commission and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). With over 200 participants, the series got off to a successful start. 

The Workshop confirmed the growing momentum in collaborative innovation between Africa and Europe. Stakeholders from different sectors, including civil society, education and the private sector, actively engaged in discussions and shared experiences, building a strong foundation for continued collaboration. The first Workshop emphasised the importance of IPRs in fostering innovation and highlighted key aspects, including the implementation of the joint Agenda, the experiences of participating institutions and an in-depth training programme on IPR strategies for innovation. 

A notable highlight of the day’s learning activities was the Deep Tech training session, which covered a discussion on technology solutions based on scientific or engineering challenges. A recording of the Deep Tech component, as well as more information, can be found on the AU-EU Innovation Interface. Additionally, the Innovation Interface hosts the ‘Deep Tech Transformation Training Scheme’, a seven-module training package that will take place during the implementation phase of the short-term actions of the AU-EU Innovation Agenda. 

The Workshop also featured success stories from African and European companies and start-ups, illustrating how participation in AU-EU events has facilitated international collaboration, access to funding and networking opportunities. This clearly highlights the wider impact of innovation across geographical borders. 

 Closing remarks highlighted the success of the Workshop event as the first in a series of biannual meetings, signalling the continuity of efforts with six more workshops planned. The next Virtual Workshop is planned to be held in April 2024, agenda’s details and registration form will be available on the AU-EU Innovation Interface. Stay tuned! 

The full report of the workshop can be found here.