Zagreb, Croatia – October 12, 2023
A significant event took place on October 12, 2023, as Mr. Zoran Barisic, the Deputy President of the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA), in collaboration with the Croatian Union of Innovators, organized a meeting with a delegation from the South African Association of Innovators (SELGA). The meeting was held in the scenic city of Zagreb, Croatia, coinciding with the International Exhibition of Innovations ARCA ’23.
The delegation from the Africa Institute, representing SELGA, included key figures in the field of innovation:
Mr. William Moraka, Head of Innovation Program
Ms. Thembeka Mthethwa, Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Kutlwano Chaba, Chief Digital Officer
Mr. Nkosana Makate, Senior Manager of Business Development
During their three-day visit to the ARCA ’23 International Exhibition of Innovations, the SELGA delegation engaged in various activities. On the first day, Mr. Zoran Barisic conducted a bilateral meeting to explore the missions and visions of both institutions. The meeting provided a platform to discuss a range of topics of particular interest to the South African side, such as:
Operational challenges and experiences related to organizing international innovation exhibitions.
The motivations and interests of innovators and exhibitors participating in such fairs.
The organization of accompanying events as side events to international exhibitions.
The role of national associations in encouraging, promoting, and commercializing innovations.
The contribution of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to the development of national innovation support programs, along with experiences and examples of best practices.
The crucial role played by IFIA in encouraging, promoting, and commercializing innovations.
Resource management, recognition, and the selection of fairs and events of special interest to national associations from the IFIA calendar.
Exploring other topics of mutual interest for both parties.
On the final day of ARCA ’23, during the awards ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between the Association of Croatian Innovators and SELGA, solidifying their commitment to collaborate and foster innovation on an international scale. This historic event marks a significant step towards strengthening global innovation networks and partnerships.
The meeting between IFIA, Croatia Inventors Union, and SELGA exemplifies the power of international cooperation in advancing innovation and promoting cross-border collaboration. The shared vision of fostering innovation and supporting inventors around the world is now one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to this successful gathering.