The Research and Innovation Management Division of Burapha University organized the project “Enhancing Local Communities through Intellectual Property” (IP BOOTS: Growing Local with IP Power). The opening ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Niramon Thamwiriyasati, Ph.D. , Acting Vice President for Research and Innovation, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phaitoon Kaewhom, Assistant to the President for Technology Transfer and Social Engagement, delivered the project objectives. The event took place at the Bansuan Din Hom Community Network, Wang Mai Sub-district, Na Yai Am District, Chanthaburi Province.
The project aims to equip communities with knowledge and understanding of intellectual property (IP), covering the processes of creation, protection, and utilization, in order to enhance the value of local products, services, and indigenous wisdom. This initiative serves as a model for community-level IP management that can be replicated and scaled up effectively to other areas.
The program was honored by the participation of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pattama Sreenamngern from the Faculty of Science and Arts, Burapha University, who delivered a lecture and hands-on training on “Stevia Extracts and Syrup Production.”
The IP BOOTS project represents a key mechanism in advancing Burapha University’s mission to foster sustainable development and strengthen the capacity of local communities.
The “Enhancing Local Communities through Intellectual Property” (IP BOOTS) project not only focuses on building knowledge and understanding of intellectual property, but also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- SDG 1: No Poverty – By equipping local communities with the knowledge, skills, and tools to develop financially viable enterprises based on their own resources and intellectual property, the project directly contributes to poverty reduction. It enables farmers and community members to diversify income sources, establish sustainable businesses, and improve their livelihoods, thereby reducing economic vulnerability and promoting inclusive growth.
SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The project supports the development of products derived from local resources, such as the extraction of active compounds and the production of stevia syrup, which serve as alternative raw materials for adding value to food and nutrition. This initiative helps generate income for farmers while strengthening food security within the community.
SDG 4: Quality Education – By emphasizing knowledge transfer and hands-on training, the project creates a model of practical learning that can be applied and expanded further. It promotes lifelong learning opportunities, enabling local people to access knowledge in science, technology, and intellectual property management.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – The establishment of a community-level intellectual property management mechanism lays the foundation for future innovation. It empowers communities to transform agricultural products and local wisdom into high-value goods that are competitive in the marketplace.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The project is built upon collaboration among Burapha University, local communities, and various stakeholders, showcasing the strength of multi-sector partnerships in enhancing quality of life and advancing sustainable development.
In essence, the IP BOOTS project goes beyond simply generating new knowledge; it serves as a key mechanism linking academia, communities, industries, and society to create sustainable, system-wide impact across economic, social, health, and educational dimensions.
