UNESCO-WIPO-Korea University Forum Held ― A Platform for Future Discussions 

The UNESCO-WIPO-Korea University Forum, hosted by Korea University Business School (Dean: Eonsoo Kim), was held on Tuesday, September 3rd, at Supex Hall, LG-POSCO Hall. The forum, themed “Global Women Leadership in Innovation, IP, and Entrepreneurship for SDGs,” focused on discussions and presentations about female leadership in science and technology and the entrepreneurial spirit needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

In her welcome speech, Ms. Altayework Tedla of the WIPO Academy stated, “It is an honor to hold this program in Korea,” and expressed her gratitude to Korea University Business School for hosting the forum. The WIPO Academy, part of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), is dedicated to providing intellectual property (IP) education, training, and capacity-building for WIPO member states, particularly those in developing and underdeveloped countries. Ms. Tedla emphasized, “The purpose of today’s forum is to discuss removing barriers faced by women and ensuring their equal participation in innovation and science.” 

Representing UNESCO, Professor Benno Böer said, “UNESCO has been a steady partner with WIPO,” and added, “Although women’s career participation in science is essential for achieving SDGs, the reality does not reflect this.” She noted that UNESCO is currently collaborating with various international organizations and universities, including WIPO, to promote women’s participation in science and technology. 

Professor Böer also expressed that the forum would serve as a platform to explore ways to economically utilize the ideas and discoveries of female scientists and ensure their impact is passed down through generations in their respective fields. Dean Eonsoo Kim of Korea University Business School welcomed the participants, saying, “It is an honor to meet female scientists who are active globally at this forum.” 

The first presentation was given by SooYoun Chang, CEO of PREVENOTICS, who spoke on the topic, “The Paradoxical First Challenge of Female Entrepreneurs.” PREVENOTICS is currently developing AI technology to aid in early cancer diagnosis and prevention. This was followed by Serim Lee, Manager at the Korea Entrepreneurship Foundation, who presented on “Entrepreneurship and IP.” Since the 2000s, the Foundation has supported young people from various sectors and universities in discovering creative talent and achieving challenging goals. 

The panel discussion featured Professor Habiba Bouhamed Chaabouni, Professor Rajaa Cherkaoui El Moursli, and Professor Lourdes J. Cruz, all recipients of the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards. The panelists shared their experiences and lessons learned from their respective scientific fields. The forum concluded with a group photo session.