IRIIC Celebrates Creativity and Innovation on World Intellectual Property Day 2025
On April 26, 2025, the Institute of Research, Innovation, Incubation, and Commercialization (IRIIC) at United International University (UIU) hosted a vibrant seminar to celebrate World Intellectual Property Day. Organized in collaboration with the Standing Committee on IPR of BASIS and Medhashum, the event focused on raising awareness about intellectual property (IP) laws, rights, and their critical applications, especially for researchers, creators, and innovators.
The seminar brought together a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Arif Khan, a constitutional expert and seasoned lawyer at the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh; Engineer M. Mahbub Hossain, Managing Director of Tiger Telecom & Engineering Pte Ltd; Khayam Sanu Sandhi, a celebrated musical composer and lyricist; and Barrister Tasnuva Shelley, Advocate at the Supreme Court and a leading voice in IP rights advocacy, who also leads several organizations working to support innovation and legal education in Bangladesh.
Throughout the session, discussions emphasized the necessity of safeguarding creative and research-based works against theft and misuse. Khayam Sanu Sandhi shared his personal experiences, highlighting how crucial intellectual property rights have been in protecting his creative expressions. He also advocated for stronger government initiatives to support artists and ensure their work is fairly recognized and protected in both local and global markets.
Engineer M. Mahbub Hossain offered a perspective from the technology sector, shedding light on the significance of IP protections in IT companies and industries. He discussed how patents and other IP tools are essential for defending innovations and encouraging further technological development in a competitive market.
Arif Khan delivered an informative presentation on the current legal framework surrounding IP in Bangladesh. He explained the structural challenges in enforcement, the gaps in awareness, and the legislative efforts required to align with global IP standards. His remarks highlighted the need for coordinated reforms and institutional support to strengthen IP governance in the country.
Adding a multi-sectoral viewpoint, Barrister Tasnuva Shelley emphasized the critical need for cross-industry collaboration in advancing IP awareness. Drawing from her experience in both the legal and entrepreneurial landscapes, she spoke about the importance of legal education, policy advocacy, and accessible IP platforms to empower creators and innovators — especially women and underrepresented groups.
The seminar succeeded in sparking meaningful dialogue among attendees and reaffirmed the essential role of intellectual property in sustaining creativity, research, and entrepreneurship. As Bangladesh moves forward in building an innovation-driven economy, events like this play a vital role in cultivating a culture that not only respects but actively protects the ideas and creations that shape our future.
IRIIC extends heartfelt appreciation to all speakers, partners, and participants who contributed to making the event a powerful celebration of creativity, innovation, and intellectual property.
