Review and Assessment of Intellectual Property Policy Implementation in Tanzanian Universities and Research Institutions of Health and Sciences

Background: Intellectual Property Policy is one of the tools that can be used to address challenges faced by universities and research institutions in protecting and commercialising of products resulting from research activities. Objectives: The aim of this study was to the review and assess the implementation of IP policies in universities and research institutions of health and allied sciences in Tanzania. Methods: This study targeted universities and research institutions of health sciences in Tanzania. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and review of intellectual property policy documents. Results: Interviewed key informants indicated sub-optimal or lack of implementation of intellectual property policies in their respective institutions. Major reasons for lack or suboptimal implementation of intellectual property policy included limited awareness on existing institutions’ intellectual property policy, and in some institutions, lack of guidelines and regulations for implementation of intellectual property policy, and not knowing how and the importance of protecting and exploiting intellectual property. Conclusion: Sub optimal and non-implementation of Intellectual Property policy in the studied institutions can be partly attributed to lack of policy guidelines and low awareness on intellectual property policy among staff members. Effective approaches for dissemination of approved Intellectual Property policy, regulations and guidelines will enhance its implementation and hence promote IP protection and commercialisation.