Biopolymer Workshop mAUriTiUs 2013 Harnessing the power of biopolymers for improving human wellbeing and enhancing global competitiveness Set ting up of a Bio - based Industr y in Mauritius Mauritius, May 8 -10, 2013
contents
The Biopolymer Workshops Approach
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GLOBAL BIOPOLYMER NETWORK PARTNERS
4
BIOPOLYMERS AND BIOMATERIALS
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SETTING-UP OF A BIO-BASED INDUSTRY IN MAURITIUS
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COMMON MARKET FOR EASTERN AND SOUTHERN AFRICA (COMESA)
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PROGRAMME 12 WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
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WELCOME ADDRESSES
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INNOVATION POLICY
14
INNOVATION PLATFORM FOR STAKEHOLDERS
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KNOWLEDGE FOR GROWTH
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PROJECT IDEAS
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OUTCOMES 21 WRAP UP
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THE PEOPLE
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PARTICIPANTS 26 BIOPOLYMER WORKSHOPs IN THE MEDIA
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Center of Excellence for Polymer Materials and Technologies, CE PoliMaT
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The Biopolymer Workshops Approach • Joint initiative of the Global Biopolymer Network • Focus on a new generation of young scientists and engineers • Interface with science, industry
Principal organizers: CE PoliMaT; CBBR, University of Mauritius; COMESA Edited by: Maja Berden Zrimec
and policy • Formation of project ideas
Prepared by: Alexis Zrimec, Archana Bhaw-Luximon
addressing specific local
Graphic design and layout by: Alenka Paveo, www.paveo.si
needs
Photographs (on pages from 6 to 8 and from 15 to 27) by: Ronald Begue All rights reserved. No part of this report may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means (including photocopying, recording or information storage and retrieval) without permission in writing from the Center of Excellence PoliMaT. Published in 2013 by CE PoliMaT, Tehnološki park 24, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia ©CE PoliMaT Issued by: CE PoliMaT, Tehnološki park 24, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia CBBR, University of Mauritius, Réduit, Mauritius VDI/VDE-IT, Steinplatz 1, D-10623 Berlin, Germany PCCL, Roseggerstraße 12, A-8700 Leoben, Austria
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• Sharing state-of-the-art biopolymer knowledge • Formation of multi-disciplinary teams working on concrete topics • Involvement of international and local mentors for student orientation
About the Approach
The Biopolymer Workshops Approach
B
iopolymer workshops bring
issues and to create roadmaps to
experts from the Global
solutions. Through lectures, case
Biopolymer Network to local
studies, panel discussions, and intensive
environments and integrate
group work, Biopolymer workshops
them with local R&D and
lead to outlined collaborative project
industrial competencies by initiating
ideas that address specific needs of
collaboration and partnerships.
different industrial, social and consumer segments, and a clear action plan
By participating in the Workshops,
for further development into well-
universities, government officials,
defined project proposals. In addition,
industry representatives, and the
dedicated international teams that
interested public as the Workshops’ key
make up the core of future partnerships
actors fuel innovations and establish
and collaborative projects are formed.
usable framework conditions. Biopolymer workshops are applicable Teams of international and local
in the areas of sustainable
mentors work with Biopolymer
development and climate change,
workshop participants to identify
agriculture, health, clean water, waste
challenges, value chains, addressable
management, and renewable energy,
technological problems, and policy
just to name a few.
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ABoUt the PARtneRs
global Network for local growth
t
tHE AuStEN BIOINNOVAtION INtItutE IN AkrON (ABIA), is an ohio based center of excellence for Biomedicine and healthcare, the future home of the ohio hub of Innovation and opportunity for
he Global Biopolymer network
Biomaterials commercialization.
works to change the culture
Along with its founding member, the
of innovation in the fi eld of
University of Akron, it is the winner
biopolymers. Focusing also on
of the prestigious Us Department of
developing countries, the network
commerce’s 6th national Innovation
serves to promote radical innovations through novel applications in diverse environments. As an enabling and transformative technology, biopolymer-
challenge. ABIA is focused on patient-centered innovation and commercialization. http://www.abiakron.org/
based platforms can be drivers of new value-chains, new industries, and new employment opportunities.
tHE glOBAl BIOPOlyMEr NEtWOrk • Represents an excellencedriven international science and technology partnership committed to tackle health and environmental challenges in developing countries • Innovates by pursuing new forms of international collaboration involving networks of research institutes, universities, and industry in shaping science and technology diplomacy among nations
HkS - tHE SCIENCE, tECHNOlOgy AND glOBAlIZAtION PrOJECt At tHE HArVArD kENNEDy SCHOOl the aim of the science, technology and Globalization project (stG) is to undertake research, conduct training, provide policy advice, and disseminate information on
• Builds upon the strengths of
interactions between technological
participating entities with a
innovation and globalization, with a
focus on real-world problems
particular emphasis on implications
that can be addressed through
for developing countries.
applications of advanced biopolymer materials
http://belfercenter.ksg.harvard.edu/ project/39/science_technology_and_ globalization.html
4
ABoUt the PARtneRs
GloBAl Biopolymer NeTWork pArTNers http://en.polimat.si/
tHE POlyMEr COMPEtENCE CENtEr lEOBEN gMBH (PCCl) is the leading Austrian “center of excellence� for cooperative research in the area of JOMO kENyAttA uNIVErSIty Of VDI/VDE-It is a leading service provider in questions concerning the entire field of innovation and technology. It provides assistance and counseling for the analysis, funding and organization of innovation and technology; it offers customized solutions for every step in the innovation process; it is an independent and well-established enterprise with 35 years
AgrICulturE AND tECHNOlOgy (JkuAt) is a public university in nairobi, Kenya. It has a pivotal role to play in the achievement of national development goals and beyond by hosting the Pan African University Institute of Basic science, technology and Innovation (stI) and the African Institute for capacity Development
polymer engineering and sciences. In close cooperation with its scientific partners at four universities, its 90 highly qualified employees are active in a wide field of applications for plastics ranging from the automotive and aircraft, to the packaging, solar and photovoltaic industries. By linking scientific knowledge to the industrial need for innovation, PccL
(AIcAD).
contributes to the
http://www.jkuat.ac.ke/
industrial partners.
competitiveness of its
http://www.pccl.at/en/
of experience. http://www.vdivde-it.de/
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introduction
BIOPOLYMERS AND BIOMATERIALS A New Innovation Platform for Africa’s Development
T Mateja Dermastia CEO of CE PoliMaT
echnological advancements
an initiative to support development of
and the ability to innovate have
a biopolymers and biomaterials cluster
become ever more crucial in
in 2011 as part of a science, technology
the quest for competitiveness
and innovation program. Creative use
and productivity in today’s
of biopolymers and biomaterials can
global economy. Innovation-driven by
help to empower COMESA countries to
talented scientists and engineers is one
utilize their rich agricultural resources to
of the key engines of economic growth,
foster green growth strategies and that
job creation, new business formation
offer solutions for challenges such as
and the well being of society. This is
sustainable agriculture, health, water,
especially true for countries with a long-
energy and environmental management.
term dependence on exports of limited
COMESA countries have abundant
natural resources, conventional industrial
natural resources but insufficient supply
processes, and climate-challenged
of human capital and expertise to fully
agriculture.
utilize the resources using emerging technologies.
African countries have been slow to take advantage of their natural
In June 2012, the Science, Technology,
resources partly because of their limited
Globalization Project at Harvard Kennedy
access to platform technologies that
School and CE PoliMaT of Slovenia
have broad applications. The power
hosted the “International Conference on
over such technologies is currently
Technology and Innovation for Global
being demonstrated by the pervasive
Development: Schumpeter and Polymer
economic impact of information and
Research”. The conference noted that
communications technologies. An
relying on local resources for innovation
emerging platform technology of
is no longer a sufficient strategy for rapid
relevance to Africa is biopolymers
economic transformation. It called on
and biomaterials.
emerging economies to leverage the power of biopolymers for development
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The Common Market for Eastern and
through new forms of international
Southern African (COMESA) launched
science and technology collaboration.
introduction
“ Creative use of biopolymers and biomaterials can help to empower COMESA countries to utilize their rich agricultural resources to foster green growth strategies and to offer solutions for challenges such as sustainable agriculture, health, water, energy and environmental management.”
A Global Biopolymer Network (GBN) is
private sector. Such networks are part
emerging under the leadership of CE
of the emerging field of science and
PoliMaT to bring together global scientific
technology diplomacy.
and technological know-how as well as young talents from African countries. The
The second African biopolymer workshop,
network includes: CE PoliMaT (Slovenia),
“Setting-up of a Bio-based Industry in
the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron
Mauritius”, was held in May 2013 at the
(USA); Harvard School of Engineering
African Network for Drugs and Diagnostics
and Applied Sciences; Harvard Kennedy
Innovation (ANDI) Center of Excellence
School (Cambridge, USA); Jomo Kenyatta
for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research
University of Agriculture and Technology
(CBBR) of the University of Mauritius.
–JKUAT (Nairobi, Kenya); VDI/VDE
COMESA supported the workshop. The
Innovation (Berlin, Germany); and PCCL
workshop stressed the need to strengthen
(Leoben, Austria). The network builds on
national innovation systems. It noted
the strengths of participating institutions
that new policy tools were needed to
and companies with a focus on
unlock the potential of biopolymers and
problem-solving.
nanotechnology in supporting key sectors of the Mauritian economy. The workshop
As a follow-up to the 2012 Harvard
concluded that more coordinated
Kennedy School conference, the first
action at the COMESA level was needed
African workshop on biopolymers was
to support the transfer of biopolymer
held on January 2013 at the JKUAT,
knowledge into goods and services for
a node of the Pan-African University
economic development and global
responsible for basic sciences,
competitiveness.
technology and innovation. The goal of the workshop was to establish a
The next steps will involve concerted
frontier biopolymer research program
leadership to translate the ideas arising
for the African continent. The workshop
from these workshops into specific
stressed the critical role of building new
program activities driven by COMESA
international networks involving research
member states as well as other relevant
institutes, national universities, and the
regional and international institutions.
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About CBBR
SETTING-UP OF A BIO-BASED INDUSTRY IN MAURITIUS
A Dhanjay Jhurry CSK – National Research Chair (NIS) and Head CBBR
s Mauritius endeavours
The Workshop has attracted about
to develop new pillars of
100 participants not only from public
its economy fuelled by
institutions, parastatals, private
knowledge and innovation,
companies and research institutions
be it the ocean economy,
at the local level but also from various
the medical hub, the education hub or
COMESA member states – Kenya, Malawi,
the biotech/biomedical industry, the
Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
importance of a National Innovation
- and all have contributed actively
System becomes crucial. In that NIS, in
through round tables or participation
addition to Government and Private sector’s contributions, research institutions and researchers have a key role to play in helping in the organization of a knowledge economy. It is in that spirit that CBBR (ANDI Centre of Excellence for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research) has liaised with the Center of Excellence for Polymer Materials and Technologies (CE PoliMaT) and the Global Biopolymer Network for setting the goals and structure of the workshop ‘Setting-up of a Bio-based Industry in Mauritius’ that was then successfully organized on 8-10 May 2013 at the Bonâme Hall, Mauritius SugarCane Industry Research Institute. The technical support of CE PoliMaT and the
FOR BIOMEDICAL AND BIOMATERIALS RESEARCH (CBBR) focuses on research in the areas of advanced polymer materials, biomaterials and nano-drug delivery as well as on the development of value-added products from indigenous land and marine resources and their biological potential for the prevention of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Through its well established regional and international linkages and network, CBBR positions itself as a bridge between University and Industry, a first of its kind in Mauritius.
Global Biopolymer Network was crucial
CBBR was designated as a COMESA
in mounting the Workshop programme,
Center of Excellence in biomedical
contributing to lectures and acting as
research in 2013.
mentors for group discussion.
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ANDI Center of Excellence
About CBBR
“ As Mauritius endeavours to develop new pillars of its economy fuelled by knowledge and innovation, the importance of a National Innovation System becomes crucial.�
in group discussion in identifying areas
institutions are currently underway for the
and projects to set the base for the Bio-
implementation of the projects. Moreover,
industry in Mauritius.
two international research collaborations have been signed with CE PoliMat and
It is important also to stress on the
Harvard University engaging researchers
regional dimension of the Workshop.
and postgraduate students.
By spearheading the Bio-industry, Mauritius can be a model for other
We are most grateful to the European
African countries. The support and
Union, the Ministry of Finance and
encouragement of the COMESA
Economic Development, the Ministry of
secretariat is gratefully acknowledged.
Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, the Mauritius Research
This Workshop is not an end in itself but the
Council and 8 private companies for their
beginning of a long journey. Discussions
financial support. We are also indebted to
with Ministries, private sector and research
the MSIRI for their logistic support.
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ABoUt coMesA
commoN mArkeT For eAsTerN AND soUTherN AFricA (comesA)
t
his workshop is one of the very many steps that will be taken
COMMON MArkEt fOr EAStErN
towards implementing the
AND SOutHErN AfrICA (COMESA)
coMesA stI (science, technology and Innovation) strategic priority
on creating a regional Bio/Polymer and new Materials cluster Platform. the Ministers responsible for stI identifi ed
fred kongongo head of regional science, technology and Innovation programme the secretariat of the common market for eastern and southern Africa
biopolymers and nanotechnology as some of the technologies that Africa can use to leap frog in technological advancement.
nineteen member states stretching from Libya to Zimbabwe and is one of the pillars of the African economic community. In 2008, coMesA agreed to an expanded free-trade zone including members of two other African trade blocs, the
In addition, they designated several
east African community (eAc) and
regional centers of excellence, the AnDI
the southern Africa Development
centre of excellence for Biomedical and
community (sADc).
Biomaterials Research being one of them. stI for development requires political leadership, policy coherence and coordination. the fundamental institutional reform needed cannot be driven by sectorial Ministries of science, technology and education alone. that is why it was recommended that there should be an
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coMesA is a free trade area with
coMesA Member states recognize the importance of science and technology in socioeconomic and cultural development and have agreed to cooperate in various fi elds as stated in the decision of the 2010 coMesA summit on science and technology Development. the need for concrete projects
office of technology advisor to presidents
that will deliver tangible results for
and prime ministers in all coMesA Member
the region is the greatest priority,
states. the Republic of Mauritius might
while mainstreaming science
lead the rest of the coMesA countries in
and technology in all coMesA
implementing this decision.
programmes.
ABoUt coMesA
“this workshop is one of the very many steps that will be taken towards implementing the COMESA StI (Science, technology and Innovation) strategic priority on creating a regional Bio/Polymer and New Materials Cluster Platform.�
Academic institutions, sMes and generally the private sector hold the key to the adoption of technology for industrial and trade development in Africa. the stI reform agenda for Africa and the coMesA region in particular is therefore pressing. In science and engineering, for instance, equipment and materials are expensive. to make the most of what is available, a creative approach is required. For example, universities in one country can consider creating a national innovation center that can be used to attract public and private funding for research and innovation. these centers can be used to foster regional collaboration between coMesA member states to ensure that limited human and scientifi c resources we have in the region are optimally deployed for the development of the region. the good news is that coMesA treaty already provides for cooperation and promotion of science and technology among our Member states. however, what has been lacking is the implementation of the provisions of the treaty. It is
current members
time we follow through our pronouncements with
Former members
action plans to implement the decisions agreed
Map of Africa indicating coMesA membership
upon for the realization of the common goal of the region which is better livelihood for the people.
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ABOUT THE AGENDA
PROGRAMME
WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
Wednesday, May 8
Overall objective:
Increasing R&D Impact
To develop and improve the framework conditions to unlock the potential of using (bio)polymers
VIP Workshop: • Turning Inventions into Innovations Keynote Lectures
and nanotechnology in various key sectors of the Mauritian economy as well as assisting in the development of a bio-based industry in Mauritius as
Thursday, May 9
a new pillar of its economy.
Science with a Mission
Specific objectives:
• Science Trends in Biopolymer Research Applications
• Introducing policy trends for setting up
• Environment Centers of Excellence - Management of Excellence and Key Success Factors
framework conditions to increase the innovation and competitiveness of a bio-based industry in Mauritius • Identification of local needs that can be
• Value Creation Centers of Excellence - Driver to Turn Inventions into Innovations
addressed by international science &
• Plenary Discussion Local Needs that can be Addressed with Biopolymers
involving stakeholders along the value chain
• Group Formation Groups for Identified Focus Areas
technology expertise – by formation of international and interdisciplinary teams,
• Development of outlines for a national technology transfer approach, and identifying particular technology transfer opportunities • Reviewing R&D and engineering capacities to identify training and instrumental needs for
Friday, May 10
upgrading existing technologies and industries
Walk the Talk
• Discussing research projects and identifying
Policy Workshop
Group Work
research collaborations with CE PoliMaT and
• Benchmarking of Centers of Excellence
• Collaborative R&D and Industrial Projects on Focus Areas
partners from the Global Biopolymer Network,
• Regional Biopolymer Network Wrap-up
• Presentation of Project Ideas and Roadmaps Agreement on Follow-up Measures
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focusing on adding value to Mauritian bioresources for (bio)polymer production, R&D and industrial capacities • Coaching of policy makers and other stakeholders for improving framework conditions • Building public-private partnerships
Welcome Addresses
WELCOME ADDRESSES Ms. Mateja Dermastia, CEO of CE PoliMaT “Leveraging the power of frontier polymer research to address global challenges in the fields such as agriculture, health, water, and environmental management requires a radical change in the relationship between industry and top science and an increase of research and development capacities on the global level.”
Prof. Dhanjay Jhurry, CSK – National Research Chair and Head CBBR “The development of a biobased industry could give us some competitive edge, be it in the biomedical sector, in the use of advanced biotechnology in agriculture, in the development of high value bio-based products, or in the combination of biopolymers and nanotechnology.”
Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, Director of Mauritius Research Council
Mr. Andrew Slome, Honorary Consul of Republic of Slovenia
“The MRC Board was most enthusiastic about funding the proposal to organize the Bioworkshop, as it is about innovation and linking research with the economy. That’s what Mauritius needs.”
“New diplomatic leadership on using science and technology to solve global challenges is starting to emerge from smaller nations working closely with developing country partners.”
Dr. Satish Ramchurn, Dean of Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius “This Workshop is important for Mauritius, as it aims at the transformation of knowledge gained through research into wealth creation through setting-up a new industry as a pillar of the Mauritian economy, in line with Government policies.”
Mr. Fred Kongongo, COMESA “The Ministers responsible for STI identified biopolymers and nanotechnology as some of the technologies that Africa can use to leap frog in its technological advancement.”
Honorable Dr. Rajesh Jeetah, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology “I look forward to the Workshop recommendations to help Mauritius pave the way forward.”
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Increasing R&D Impact
INNOVATION POLICY Turning inventions into innovations Innovation policy has to address three key areas: education, innovation, and research. The nature of innovation is continuously changing and it will have a significant impact on industry and academia. Consequently, all actors of the triple helix – industry, academia, and policy – have to better cooperate in the future in order to design new tools to promote innovations. Policy makers can stimulate innovation through fiscal and regulatory measures, institutional support, program support, and funding innovations.
The VIP workshop addressed the policy trends for setting up a bio-based industry in Mauritius and a new approach on how to increase innovation and the competitiveness of Mauritian industry. Around 100 participants came from the ministries, multilateral agencies, commissions, institutes, universities, science and training centers, standards bureau, hospitals, governmental organizations, and industry.
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Gerd Meier zu Köcker
“ The Workshop has shown the huge potential of biopolymer applications for many sectors in Mauritius. The strong research basis and dedicated commitment of policy makers will help to turn these potentials into competitive products.” — Gerd Meier zu Köcker, VDI/VDE-IT, Head of Section International Technology Transfer, Clusters
Increasing R&D Impact
Innovation Policy Issues – Management of Centers of Excellence
Martin Payer The PCCL experience – Success factors in science-industry cooperation PCCL acts as a link bridging the gap between basic research and competitive industrial research & development. PCCL is involved in training and developing the career prospects of its junior researchers and integrates them into projects that may lead to their retainment in industry as well as in academic programs.
Centers of Excellence (CE) can provide a much greater impact on a sector or region’s ability to innovate when managed in an excellent way. CE management can be improved using benchmarking, which is considered a promising tool to initiate mutual learning based on peerreviews and self-assessments.
Representatives from Zambia, Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Malawi presented their innovation “environment”, intellectual property policy, regional cooperation, and fields of biopolymer applications.
Regional Biopolymer Network The COMESA Secretariat launched the COMESA Innovation Council in April 2013. The Innovation Council among other things will create an opportunity for the COMESA Secretariat and COMESA Member States to get structured advice on how best to harness existing knowledge & technologies for the development of the region. COMESA Member States will make use of the expertise of the COMESA Innovation Council to create National Innovation Councils to enhance STI collaboration within and outside the region.
Fred Kongongo
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Science with a Mission
INNOVATION PLATFORM FOR STAKEHOLDERS Andrej Kr탑an: Current Trends in Biopolymers
Knowledge on current trends is the basis for identifying local needs that can be solved with biopolymers. Africa has an enormous untapped potential to set-up and exploit bioresources from their local agricultural products. In the case of Mauritius, sugar could be converted into value-added products.
Sujata Bhatia: Medical Devices and Biomaterials for Mauritius
Biopolymer science and technology relevant to local bioresources and capacities Leveraging the power of cutting-edge biopolymer knowledge to address global challenges requires international scientific and technology collaboration. GBN brings an excellencedriven international science and technology partnership committed to tackle challenges into developing countries. New value chains, new industries, and new employment opportunities can be driven by the biopolymer-based platforms as enabling and transformative technology.
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Biomedical engineers are always searching for novel materials for biomedical devices which are compatible with the human body. Thus it is very important for developing countries to look at the resources that they already possess to develop their own medical technology. Bio-based polymers such as corn-derivatives, soybean fibres, bamboo viscose fibres, and alginate microspheres offer many advancements and are biocompatible.
Science with a Mission
Majda Žigon:
Zorica Crnjak Orel:
Characterization of Complex Macromolecules
Nanomaterials and Nanocomposites
Characterization techniques essential for the detailed analysis of polymers are a key component before any commercial application. Especially useful is combining different techniques for the characterization of complex macromolecules to quantify several polymers’ features.
ZnO is a semiconductor, catalyst, effective UV absorber, and a bactericidal agent. It has versatile uses in protection against radiation, for example as coatings in the building industry. Potential uses of ZnO nanocomposites are in paint, especially for clinical spaces given the bactericidal nature of ZnO, window coatings and textile coatings for personal UV protection.
Identification of local challenges
Gernot Oreski: Ageing, Stabilization and Testing of Biopolymers
Chemical aging involves changes in chemical composition or molecular weight or structure that are irreversible. It affects mechanical, thermomechanical, thermal and optical properties. The induction of the aging process could potentially be delayed or manipulated to fit the polymer application.
Research needs Biorelated research in Mauritius is mainly in the field of novel polymers for
Universities, government, industry,
use as scaffolds in tissue
and the engaged community
engineering, the use of
are key actors when it comes to
polysaccharides extracted
initiating innovations and setting
from locally available
suitable framework conditions.
seaweeds for controlled drug
Close cooperation and common
delivery applications, and
understanding among these groups is of critical importance. They have to jointly design new
the valorization of sucrose Dhanjay Jhurry
through the development of advanced materials.
tools to promote innovations.
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Science with a Mission
“ The Workshop impressively demonstrated the potential of industry-science cooperation in such innovative fields as (bio)polymers. By combining the regional competences on the one hand and the Global Biopolymer Network on the other, very promising perspectives in international R&Dcooperation are arising.” — Martin Payer
Industrial and institutional needs were discussed by stakeholders in a plenary discussion about “Local needs that can be addressed with biopolymers”. The panelists came from public institutions (Joint Economic Council), private companies (GML, Mauvilac Chemicals Ltd), government (Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Consumer Protection), the University of Mauritius, and research institutions (Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute).
Focus areas for international innovation collaboration Local challenges can only be addressed with the involvement of local stakeholders, industry, and R&D interacting with global scientific and technical knowledge. The integration of local interests, capacity, and expertise with the competitive advantage provided by the Global
Three main needs have been identified for
Biopolymer Network, is achieved by
“Setting-up of a Bio-Based Industry in Mauritius”:
forming mentor teams for identifying
1. Identification of market needs
focus areas for international innovation
2. Establishing an innovation policy 3. Establishing a framework to bring all stakeholders onto the same platform
collaboration. They have the goal of initiating interdisciplinary teams and project ideas to transform local challenges into opportunities for local growth.
Focus areas identified in the Mauritius Biopolymer workshop: • Innovation Policy Issues • Biopolymers in Health and Environment • Value-added Bioresource Use • Education and Capacity Building
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Walk the Talk
KNOWLEDGE FOR GROWTH “ I knew once I found a problem, I could solve it. The biggest challenge for me was which problem to solve.� — Max Imran
Developing a statement of need The statement of need establishes a focus and rationale for the team and project. The statement must be concise and actionable, and it should define the need/problem, identify the target population or the market (industrial, social, consumer segments), and justify its urgency.
is to provide insight into the relevance, value and implementation feasibility of the project initiatives; each group prepares a joint Project Idea. Applying Value driven principles in searching for the right solution Value-driven engineering is an approach to innovation that follows the core principles: assurance of quality, utility with the quality of life and economic needs of the end user in
Approach for addressing the need Building a team Identification of local needs is addressed by international scientific and technological expertise offered by GBN experts in cooperation with local mentors to form international and interdisciplinary teams, involving stakeholders along the value chain. Teams are built around the selected focus areas, preparing concise statements of needs, goals to reach the solution, and the value for stakeholders, depending on their available competencies and capacities. The role of local and international experts is to provide scientific and technological guidance, while the role of industry and other stakeholders
mind, reduced complexity for the end user, and demonstrated savings to the buyer.
Roadmap to solution Through lectures, case studies, discussions, and intensive group work, participants identify challenges, value chains, technological problems and policy issues that address the identified needs. With the help of mentor teams, they consequently create roadmaps to their solutions. The results are collaborative project ideas that address identified needs as well as clear action plans for further development into well-defined project proposals. The core of future partnerships and collaborative projects are dedicated international teams that are formed during the Workshop.
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Walk the Talk
PROJECT IDEAS Encapsulation of biopesticides and biofertilizers
Towards the setting up of a bioplastic industry in Mauritius
Education and Capacity
Mentors: Theeshan Bahorun
Mentors: Asha Dookun-
Mentor: Gernot Oreski (PCCL)
(CBBR), Archana Bhaw-
Saumtally (MSIRI), Zorica
Luximon (CBBR) , Majda
Crnjak Orel (CE PoliMaT),
Žigon (CE PoliMaT)
Andrej Kržan (CE PoliMaT,
Focus area: Biopolymers in health and environment Team mission: Innovative
NIC) Focus area: Value-added bioresource use
alternative products for
Team mission: Improvements
improving food security
in industrial utilization of local
and reducing health and
bioresources
environmental hazards Challenges: • Health concern: Rising
incidence of diseases (cancer) linked to synthetic pesticides abuse, rising costs of public healthcare • Environmental concern:
Eco-friendly island state (MID concept) • Emergence of innovative
SMEs
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Need: Industrial utilization of waste from sugarcane production, which represents major waste disposal problem
Focus area: Education and capacity building Team mission: Empowering biomaterials research and gearing it towards applications Needs: • Enhancement of
university and industry cooperation for joint development of new marketable products • Identification of the
available bio-resources in Mauritius • Appropriate training
courses to build capacity in the identified areas
Outcomes
OUTCOMES • Committed international
and interdisciplinary teams, focused on addressing relevant local needs, formulated into project ideas and roadmaps • Closing the gap between
research and industry, addressing a need as specified by the industrial partner/stakeholder • State-of-the-art in Center
Management Excellence • Benchmarking between
the local and international well known Centers of Excellence • Laying the foundation of
value-driven R&D that can best incorporate local bioand renewable resources and industrial capacities • Outline of a national
technology transfer approach to make better use of the potentials of biopolymers
SUMMARY OF ACTIONS AND RECCOMENDATIONS FOR SETTING-UP A BIO-BASED INDUSTRY IN MAURITIUS CBBR has a central position for providing the highest possible impact on the bio-based sector’s ability to innovate in Mauritius. The following actions should be undertaken in order to further develop CBBR and to unlock the significant potential of the Center for the bio-based industry in Mauritius: • Establishment of CBBR as a fully autonomous research
institution linked with the University of Mauritius and the private sector • Elaboration of a written strategy and implementation plan • Dedicated service portfolio • Enhanced communication and cooperation with industry • Cooperation with overseas Centers of Excellence
The Biopolymer workshop Mauritius 2013 can serve as a pilot model for COMESA Member States. The regional dimension of the Workshop is key to enhancing STI collaboration within and outside the region. There is an imminent need to enhance innovation and education at the regional level. Projects in that direction have been put forward.
“ Participants’ feedback was good, they were actively involved in discussion and working groups. In my working group, we have clearly defined objectives and persons responsible for individual activities, so I expect that the initial enthusiasm in planning tasks will be appropriately upgraded to the project application first and then the realization of the ambitious project.” — Majda Žigon
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wrap up
WRAP UP
T
he Biopolymer workshop Mauritius 2013 had the objective to elaborate on the development and uses of biopolymers and nanotechnology in various key sectors of the Mauritian economy,
and to assist in the development of a bio-based industry in Mauritius as a new pillar of its economy. 93 participants from Mauritius, Kenya, Zambia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Slovenia, Austria, and Germany
Certificates were handed to all participants and mentors by Ms. Mateja Dermastia.
discussed innovation policy issues, identified several R&D collaboration opportunities in biopolymer applications in health and the environment, industrial
CLOSING CEREMONY
applications in value-added bioresource use, as well
Dhanjay Jhurry expressed his full
as education and capacity needs.
satisfaction regarding the realization of the objectives of the Workshop
The VIP and Policy Workshops on new trends in innovation policy and management attracted influential policy makers and industrial stakeholders. Scientific trends in biopolymers and related technologies, value-driven engineering, and business models of Centers of Excellence were presented by GBN experts. New partnerships were formed and
and enumerated the outcomes, such as the positioning of several projects in areas of national interest, the close interaction between researchers, public and private stakeholders, and discussion about ways and means to promote an innovative bio-based economy.
intensive follow-up activities will be undertaken, aiming
He requested the support of all
at international and multidisciplinary cooperation in
participants for a follow-up on key
biopolymer science and technology, supported by a
areas identified during the workshop.
stimulating innovation framework.
22
wrap up
“ In a very pleasant and nice environment, surrounded with different types of sugarcane at the Institute MSIRI, an excellently prepared workshop was held. Many enthusiastic domestic as well as international participants were strongly involved in the three-day workshop, which accomplished the presentation of four project initiatives. I strongly believe that further collaboration as well as mutual projects will be the results of the Workshop.” — Zorica Crnjak Orel
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ABoUt the PeoPLe
The people
MENtOrINg tEAM Prof. theeshan Bahorun, PhD national Research chair in Applied Biochemistry, cBBR
Sujata k. Bhatia, MD, PhD, Pe
lEADErSHIP
Assistant Director of Undergraduate studies, Biomedical engineering, harvard University Assistant Dean, harvard summer school Associate, harvard Kennedy school of Government
Mateja Dermastia, M.sc ceo of ce PoliMat
Archana Bhaw-luximon, PhD Associate Professor, cBBR
Dhanjay Jhurry, PhD csK – national Research chair and head cBBR
Zorica Crnjak Orel, PhD Vice President of scientific council of ce PoliMat
fred kongongo head of regional science, technology and Innovation
ExECutIVE tEAM
programme, the secretariat of coMesA
Alexis Zrimec, PhD strategic Marketing Adviser at ce PoliMat; head of the Workshop programme and facilitator
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ABoUt the PeoPLe Asha Dookun-Saumtally, PhD
gerd Meier zu köcker, PhD
Principal Research Manager, Mauritius sugarcane Industry Research Institute
VDI/VDe Innovation + technik Gmbh, head of section International technology transfer, clusters
frank Douglas, PhD
raj Makoond
President and ceo of ABIA
Director of Joint economic council
Vincent florence, PhD
gernot Oreski, PhD
Associate Professor of ecology, head of Department of Biosciences, University of Mauritius
senior Researcher, PccL
robindro ghose
Martin Payer, Msc
Principal Analyst at Ministry of Industry, commerce and consumer Protection
ceo of PccL
Andrej kržan, PhD
Majda Žigon, PhD
senior scientific Associate at ce PoliMat and national Institute of chemistry slovenia
President of the scientific council of ce PoliMat
Archana Bhaw-luximon, PhD
ravi Perwannee
Associate Professor, cBBR head of the cBBR organizational team
Administrative officer, cBBR
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About the participants
PARTICIPANTS COMESA delegates
Caphane, J, Postgraduate Student, UoM
Baryamureeba, V, Chairman COMESA Innovation Council / Vice Chancellor, Uganda Technology and Mgt University (UTAMU)
Cheung, P, Managing Director, Ducray Lenoir Ltd
Kareru, P, Professor at Dept. of Chemistry, JKUAT, Kenya
Dhoomun, AK, EEO, Min of Environment and Sustainable Development
Kongongo, F, Coordinator, STI & Industrial Cluster Expert, COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia
Dhunnoo, M, Research Assistant, CBBR
Kyamuhangire, W, Professor at Dept. of Agricultural and Bio-systems engineering, Makerere University, Uganda Lazaro Jere, WW, Head of Dept. and senior lecturer in Fish Genetics, Lilongwe Univ. of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Malawi Munthali, F, Chief Research Officer in the Design, Engineering, Industrial and Energy Section, National Commission for Science and Technology, Malawi Muvhunzi, F, Senior Biosafety Officer, National Biotechnology Authority, Zimbabwe Sagomba, R, Deputy Director of National Biotechnology Authority, Zimbabwe Turoop, L, Professor at Dept. of Horticulture, JKUAT, Kenya Wambua, PM, Professor of materials engineering and dean, School of Engineering, MOI University, Kenya Local delegates Aukle, DA, Ag General Manager, Central Water Authority (CWA) Baichoo, C, Mauritius Standards Bureau (MSB) Beedacee, A, Research Officer, Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) Beedassy, S, Project Manager, Mauritius-SAICM Initiative, UNDP Beesoo, R, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Bhandari, J, Acting Chairperson, MID Fund Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development Bhogun, K, Enterprise Mauritius
Coombes, L, Director, Mauvilac Industries Ltd
Dookun-Saumtally, A, Principal Research Manager, MSIRI Dyall, S, Senior Lecturer, University of Mauritius (UoM) Emrith, R, Director, Industry Fagoonee, I, CEO (former VC, UoM), International Sustainable Performance Institute (ISPI) Goonoo, N, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Gopalla, N, Investment Executive, BOI Gopeechund, A, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Gunga, S, Technical Officer, Central Water Authority (CWA) Gungadardoss, M, Principal Research Scientist, Agricultural Research and Extension Unit (AREU) Hurdial, S, Lab Manager, Bioculture Group Jaulim, S, Investment Executive, BOI Jeetah, R, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology Jeetah, R, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Jeetah, V, Jeetah Consultancy Ltd Joomun, N, Biotechnology, Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute (MSIRI) Joysury, R, Acting Lab Manager, Wastewater Management Authority (WMA) Juddoo, P, STM, Min of Environment and Sustainable Develpoment Jugdawa, Y, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Jugessur, S, Chairman UoM, University of Mauritius (UoM)
Bojeenauth, V, CEO, Mauritius Cane Industry Authority (MCIA)
Kumar, N
Busawon, A, Central Electricity Board (CEB)
LeClĂŠzio, H, GML
26
LeClĂŠzio, A, Director, Island Fertilizers
About the participants
“ I was impressed about the commitment to and the concentrated work of all the people during the workshop, starting from the staff of the University and the representatives from local industry as well as the government.” — Gernot Oreski
Loganaden, S, Mauritius Standards Bureau (MSB)
Ramkissoon, J, Director General, FARC
Madhoo, YN, Academic Staff, Faculty of Social Studies and Humanities, University of Mauritius (UoM)
Rampadarath, S, Postgraduate Student, UoM
Mamet, L, Director, Regional Training Centre (RTC) Manic, ND, Green Economy Focal Point, United Nations Maulloo, AK, Director, Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre Motala-Timol, S, Quality Assurance and Accreditation Officer, Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) Mundil, H, Senior Investment Executive, BOI Murad, F, Clinician, Apollo Bramwell Hospital Neergheen – Bhujun, V, Lecturer, CBBR Nundlall, S, Director, BOI Padayatchy, N, Bioculture Group Park, T, Project Manager, Island Fertilizers Parmessur, Y, Biotechnology, Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute (MSIRI) Peerally, A, Ex Pro VC UoM, University of Mauritius (UoM)
Ramsaha, S, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Sabapathy, C, Commission on MID Saumtally, S, Director, Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute (MSIRI) Seechurn, P, Postgraduate Student, UoM Seetaramadoo, I, Senior Coordinator, Open University of Mauritius Seethiah, D, Academic Staff, Faculty of Law & Management, University of Mauritius (UoM) Slome, A, Honorary Consul, Rep of Slovenia, Sugar Beach Hotel Somanah-Bhugowandeen, J, Postgraduate Student, CBBR Soobadar, A, Agricultural Chemistry, Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute (MSIRI) Teeluck, JP, Acting Director, Agricultural Research and Extension Unit (AREU) Thomas, JM, General Manager, Ducray Lenoir Ltd Toolsee, N, Postgraduate Student, CBBR
Prayag, V, Investment Executive, BOI
Ujoodha, R, Research Assistant, CBBR
Ramanjoola, A, ARS, MOI
Veeren, A, Postgraduate Student, CBBR
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Media Coverage
BIOPOLYMER WORKSHOPs IN THE MEDIA “ Science and technology are being increasingly recognized as central features in international diplomacy.” — Harvard Kennedy School, Belfer Center For Science and International Affairs and Technology + Policy, Innovation@Work
HARVARD KENNEDY SCHOOL, BELFER CENTER FOR SCIENCE AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS and TECHNOLOGY + POLICY, INNOVATION@WORK
Forging New Diplomatic Bonds Through Science and Technology Science and technology are being increasingly recognized as central features in international diplomacy. Much of the attention, however, has focused on how major industrialized countries and large emerging nations such as China, India, and Brazil use science and technology to advance their global competitiveness. http://hvrd.me/11mh3eV and http://bit.ly/Xyl79X
Biopolymer Workshop in Mauritius The Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs News
ANDI Centre of Excellence,
Slovenian Center of Excellence PoliMaT and the Global
Centre for Biomedical and
Biopolymer Network Assist in Setting-up of a Bio-based
Biomaterials Research News
Industry in Mauritius
Workshop: ‘Setting-up
A Biopolymer Workshop was held in Mauritius on May 8-10 for
of a Bio-based Industry
assisting in setting-up of a bio-based industry in Mauritius, with
in Mauritius’
the objective to elaborate on the development and uses of biopolymers and nanotechnology in various key sectors of the Mauritian economy.
Venue: Boname Hall, MSIRI,Reduit, Date: 8 - 10 May 2013
http://www.mzz.gov.si/nc/en/newsroom/news/article/6/32101/ 6f2337207b62dbc99302891c32666a01/
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http://vcampus.uom.ac.mu/cbbr/
Media Coverage
Biopolymer Workshop in Kenya THE SLOVENIA TIMES BUSINESS OVERVIEW
THE SLOVENIAN MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS NEWS
CE PoliMat in Kenya
Foreign Ministry
addresses sustainable
supports the setting up
agriculture, health and technological development challenges In a first-of-its-kind Biopolymer Workshop an international group of experts will instruct the participants how to integrate knowledge to identify industrial needs and
of the PoliMaT Center of Excellence in Kenya
Global Biopolymer Network CE PoliMaT News
The Global Biopolymer Network meeting of its founding members
A workshop entitled
“The World is Waiting” is
‘Biopolymer’ is being held
the motto of the Global
from 27 to 30 January in
Biopolymer Network,
Nairobi, Kenya, attended
initiated along the ASPM
by the PoliMaT Center of
2013 Conference in Bled,
Excellence, Ljubljana; Jomo
Slovenia, on April 3, 2013.
demands, how to identify
Kenyatta University, Nairobi;
policy options for action and
and the Science, Technology
how to best turn them into
and Globalisation Project,
practice.
Harvard Kennedy School.
http://bit.ly/WPPpnG
http://bit.ly/13gDpDN
http://en.polimat.si/2/News/ ID/234/The-Global-BiopolymerNetwork-meeting-of-its-foundingmembers.aspx
CE PoliMaT News JOMO KENYATTA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY NEWS
First Biopolymer Research Center for the Region Plans are underway to establish a Biopolymer Center in JKUAT to serve as a research hub in Africa to tap into the emerging multimillion industry that has promised to open numerous industrial opportunities to advance Africa’s economic development. Biopolymers are gaining increased utilization in industry that promises to boost productivity particularly in the agricultural and health sectors. http://bit.ly/XH6v63
Global Biopolymer Network launches Stakeholder Discussions Discussions held in the US, Africa and Europe provide an opportunity for dialogue with international stakeholders interested in biopolymers, including policy-makers, industry, academia, multilateral
CE PoliMaT News
agencies and investors.
A follow-up meeting of the 1st Biopolymer Workshop
http://en.polimat.si/2/News/
On April 2, 2013, mentors from JKUAT (Kenya), PCCL (Austria),
ID/262/Global-Biopolymer-
Mikrocaps Ltd, Educell Ltd and CE PoliMaT (all Slovenia) met in
Network-launches-Stakeholder-
Bled, Slovenia to discuss the progress of project initiatives from
Discussions.aspx
the 1st Biopolymer Workshop. http://en.polimat.si/2/News/ID/235/A-follow-up-meeting-of-the-1stBiopolymer-Workshop.aspx
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about CE polimat
Center of Excellence for Polymer Materials and Technologies
CE PoliMaT
T
he Center of Excellence for polymer materials and technologies (CE PoliMaT), based on a public-private partnership, was established on 8 January 2010 by a group of businesses and academic institutions.
In the field of polymer materials and technology, CE PoliMaT ensures the transformation of research excellence into products and services in hightech niche markets, supporting job creation, new business formation, economic development and the transition to a low-carbon society. CE PoliMaT facilitates research excellence by bringing together leading scientists and engineers from different disciplines, such as chemistry, physics, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medicine, and mechanical engineering. Research focuses on the development of advanced multifunctional materials with the help of nanotechnology and the use of renewable resources. The center develops applications for the use in industry, health, agriculture, building materials, renewable energy and electronics.
30
Through cooperation with leading centers of knowledge in the field of polymers in Europe, United States of America and Africa, CE PoliMaT is leading the way in creating a Global Biopolymer Network.
Contacts
CE PoliMaT, Tehnološki park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, EU T: +386 (0) 59081274 F: +386 (0) 59081279 E: info@polimat.si I: en.polimat.si Innovation office CE PoliMaT Akron Suite 801 F, Akron Global Business Accelerator / AGBA 526 S. Main Street Akron, Ohio 44311 USA
oRGAnIZeRs:
In cLose coLL ABoRAtIon WIth:
sPonsoRs: GoLD
B RonZe
VenUe PRoVIDeD BY
François de Grivel
the operation of PoliMat is partly fi nanced by the european Union through the european Regional Development Fund - budget heading 6944 competitiveness of enterprises and Research excellence - esRR-07-13-eU, accounts 4120 and 4310. 15% of the share of eligible assets represent earmarked funds from the budget of the Republic of slovenia - budget heading 9406 competitiveness of enterprises and Research excellence - esRR-07-13-slovenian participation, accounts 4120 and 4310, nRP-no 3211-09-0012.