Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET), Gazipur, commemorated World Intellectual Property Day 2026 on 6 May with a series of campus activities designed to promote the significance of intellectual property (IP) rights. The observance included a rally and a discussion session, both centered on the theme "IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate," which highlighted the potential of youth talent and the importance of building a sustainable future through sports and innovation.
The discussion was chaired by DUET Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Zaynal Abedin. University Grants Commission Member Professor Dr Md Saidur Rahman joined the event virtually as the chief guest. In his remarks, Professor Abedin underscored that the recognition and protection of intellectual property are fundamental rights for every researcher and innovator.
"As the scope of research and innovation expands across the world, the importance of intellectual property is also increasing," Professor Abedin stated. He emphasized that innovation and research now form the foundation of sustainable development, but cautioned that without proper protection, innovators may lose both recognition and opportunities for commercialisation.
Professor Abedin stressed the need to raise awareness about intellectual property to ensure legal protection for the ideas, thoughts, and creativity of researchers and innovators. He noted that proper recognition and protection of research are not possible without detailed knowledge of intellectual property.
He expressed hope that seminars and symposiums on intellectual property would help teachers and researchers gain a better understanding of IP application and registration processes. Professor Abedin urged educators and researchers to foster a culture of intellectual property protection to secure recognition for their original work and strengthen their standing both domestically and internationally.
DUET Institutional Quality Assurance Cell Director Professor Dr Md Obaidur Rahman attended the programme as a special guest. Professor Rahman highlighted that knowledge of intellectual property protection processes, rules, policies, and laws has become essential in today's challenging, information technology-driven global knowledge society.
The discussion was moderated by Institutional Quality Assurance Cell Additional Director Professor Dr Shafiqul Islam. The event was attended by deans of all faculties, directors, heads of departments, teachers, and office heads from DUET.
The university’s observance of World Intellectual Property Day aligns with global efforts to promote the value of IP rights in driving innovation and economic growth, particularly in the context of sports and youth engagement.