Bridging innovation across borders
Back row, left to right are Mr. Teboho Seseng: Manager Stakeholder Relations of the Technology Innovation Agency, Mr. John Sifani: General Manager Innovation Technology Development of the National Commission on Research Science and Technology, Prof. Tjama Tjivikua: Rector of the Polytechnic of Namibia, Mr. Vusi Skosana: Head Technology Stations Programme (TIA), Lt. Gen. Denga Ndaitwah, International University of Management. Seated in the front roe are Dr. Sibongile Gumbi: Executive Innovation Enabling Support and Dr. Eino Mvula: CEO of the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST)s
The agency to agency MoU is based on an already existing agreement on scientific and technological cooperation between both state owned enterprises. Both countries intend to strengthen and further develop their national economies and systems of innovations to improve the social-economic standards of citizens.
The agreement supports turning research into commercially viable products and services. TIA is a public entity that supports the adoption of technological innovation to improve economic growth and improve quality of life.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Eino Mvula, Chief Executive Officer of the commission and Mr Barlow Manilul, the Chief Execute Officer of the agency.
Dr. Eino Mvula, said during the signing ceremony that the agreement enables the achievement of the 5 key strategic priorities in the National Programme for Research, Science Technology and Innovation, by focusing on innovation for the social and economic reasons.
“Our emphasis here is placed on support services and resources for nurturing start-up science and technology enterprises with the goal of developing them into financially viable businesses equipped with the tools for long-term survival and growth,” Dr. Emvula said.
The reach of the MOU covers joint review of research projects for potential technology development support. The facilitating of joint workshops and seminars on commercialisation and Intellectual Property (IP) management.
The sharing of experiences in the forming of incubation services; and the training on Technology Management for government institution’s programmes and audience.
