A seminar titled ‘Contemporary Issues in Intellectual Property Rights: Emerging Technologies, Access to Medicine, and Sustainability’ was held at Mahatma Gandhi University’s School of International Relations and Politics (SIRP) on October 7, 2024. In collaboration with the Intellectual Property Rights Information Centre – Kerala (IPRIC-K), the event convened experts to explore the intricate relationships between IPR, technology, and public health.

Prof. (Dr.) Bismi Gopalakrishnan, Registrar of Mahatma Gandhi University, inaugurated the seminar, which featured two key sessions: “Emerging Technologies and IPR” and “IPR, International Trade, and Access to Medicines.” Experts from various fields, including Prof. T.C. James, President of NIPO and Visiting Fellow at RIS New Delhi, Prof. Reji. K. Joseph, Associate Professor, Institute for Studies in Industrial Development, New Delhi, Dr. Arathi P. M from the School of Indian Legal Thought, MGU, and Dr. Asha R,  Project Scientist, Patent Information Centre, KSCSTE, shared their insights and expertise on these critical topics. Dr. M.V. Bijulal, Dr. Jojin. V. John and Athira also contributed to the discussion.

The seminar facilitated critical discussions on the intersection of intellectual property rights, technology, and public health, sparking lively debates among participants, including scholars and students, who explored the complexities, challenges, and opportunities arising from these intersections.