PESHAWAR, July 22, 2025: Ambassador (R) Farukh Amil, Chairperson of the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) of Pakistan, along with a senior professional team, participated in a jointly organized one-day workshop on Patent Application Filing and the protection of Pakistan's Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, held at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar.

The Chairperson met with Professor Emeritus Dr. Jehan Bakht, Vice Chancellor of the University. The meeting was focused on the protection of indigenous research in agricultural technologies through intellectual property (IP) rights.

In his keynote address, the Chairperson emphasized that safeguarding IP assets particularly agricultural technologies, geographical indications (GI), and genetic resources with associated traditional knowledge were crucial for Pakistan’s economic growth and development. He highlighted the importance of transitioning from a consumer-oriented mindset to one of innovation and creation, particularly among Pakistan’s youth and student population. Talent was not scarce, but motivation and understanding of the immense opportunities had to improve.

He underscored the vital role of IP in today’s knowledge-based economy, explaining how patents, trademarks, copyrights, GIs, and industrial designs protect innovation and incentivize creativity. He also elaborated on the significance of the WIPO Treaty on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, noting that Pakistan a country rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, must ensure its resources are not misappropriated by others. He stressed the need for both awareness and enforcement and highlighted the strategic importance of developing IP-protected agro-technologies for Pakistan’s agrarian economy.

Mr. Muhammad Ismail, Director IPO-Pakistan, spoke about the significance of Pakistan’s genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge in empowering local communities and protecting indigenous innovation. He referenced the medicinal and economic value of several local plants, including neem, turmeric, cannabis, and azghakay. He invited researchers to collaborate with IPO-Pakistan to document and protect these invaluable assets.

Mr. Ghulam Mujtaba, Deputy Director of Patents, provided a detailed overview of the national patent system. His session included guidance on patent application filing, registration procedures, responding to office actions, and conducting international patent searches, all of which are critical for academic and research institutions.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Arif, Director ORIC at the University of Peshawar, emphasized the need for increased institutional and individual engagement with IP systems. He commended the Chairperson for engaging directly with academic institutions and proposed initiating a formal collaborative project to document genetic resources across the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region. He also expressed concern over the current situation of IP rights in the academia, pointing to a lack of awareness and prioritization among key stakeholders.

The IP awareness session aimed to educate students, Faculty, and researchers on the importance of intellectual property in fostering innovation, supporting food security, and promoting indigenous research in agricultural technologies. The event was marked by enthusiastic participation and interactive discussions, reflecting a growing interest in IP among the academic community.

The Chairman reaffirmed IPO-Pakistan’s commitment to promoting IP literacy nationwide and fostering a culture of innovation that benefits all sectors of society. He praised the University for its proactive approach in organizing the session and encouraged students and researchers to harness the power of IP to protect their innovations and contribute to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.

Source: https://ipo.gov.pk//node/3174