KINGSTON, Jamaica — Director General for the National Commission on Science and Technology, Professor Errol Morrison, is urging Jamaicans to take a closer look at how the economy can benefit from increased innovation in the creative industries.

Addressing guests at a luncheon organized by the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) as part of JIPO Week 2017, Morrison noted that there are many untapped areas which could increase individual and national wealth.He noted that our cultural expressions, such as dancehall and the Jamaican vernacular, have found resonance in diverse locations overseas, and we are “ignoring their potential to our peril”.“In many instances, innovative ideas are ignored, because they are not coming from the upper-crust who do not have the motivation to innovate as their needs are already being met,” he said.Morrison observed that innovations, such as food, transportation and communication were born out of necessity, and cited the examples of the fruit-seller in downtown Kingston who invented a machine to peel his oranges, and a lady who now sells a machine to China, that she invented for segmenting sorrel.“We need to look at what we have that is already appreciated externally, and build on our strengths,” he urged. “There is great potential in products such as our exceptionally high grade of cocoa; Jamaican ginger; and logwood honey, which is highly regarded for its anti-oxidant properties.”He encouraged the JIPO staff to continue to look beyond the traditional music and sports, to pockets of new thought, which will lead to income-generating opportunities.“The everyday man needs to understand that his ideas are not foolish. We need to empower them with confidence and opportunities. This can only benefit Jamaica,” Morrison underscored.The JIPO luncheon was part of a week-long series of activities, themed “Innovation – Improving Lives”, which were organized for Intellectual Property Week 2017 from April 23 – 28.JIPO also hosted a public copyright forum and exhibition at its St Andrew offices; public outreach events in Clarendon, Kingston and St Andrew; and Intellectual Property sensitization events at several schools.