Discover how intellectual property drives creativity and innovation in Rwanda
Learning Experience and Tutor Support
This interactive online course offers a dynamic and flexible learning experience, designed to accommodate different schedules and learning styles.
Learning tools include:
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Downloadable study modules and interactive learning activities
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Live or recorded video sessions with experts
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Discussion forums where participants can exchange ideas and experiences
Throughout the course, academic support is provided by national tutors, who are experts in the field of IP.
Description
This customized version of the DL-101 General Course offers an in-depth overview of IP law, with a focus on Rwandan legislation and practice.
Participants will explore:
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The main categories of IP — copyright, patents, trademarks, geographical indications, industrial designs, and more;
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The international framework for IP protection administered by WIPO; and
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How IP supports innovation, creativity, and sustainable development in Rwanda.
Each module includes self-assessment tools to help participants evaluate their progress and understanding, as well as opportunities to apply concepts through local case studies and discussion activities.
Course Duration and Study Time
The course runs over nine weeks and requires approximately 77 hours of study in total.
Participants are encouraged to plan their study schedule carefully and actively engage with the learning community.
Participants can post questions and engage in online discussions through the WIPO Academy’s revamped eLearning platform.
Target Audience
The DL101ERW course is designed for anyone seeking to strengthen their understanding of intellectual property, especially in the Rwandan context. It is particularly relevant for:
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University students in law, business, science, engineering, and the arts
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Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs
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Business professionals and startup founders
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Government officials and policymakers
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Legal professionals and advisors
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Artists, designers, and creators
No prior IP experience is required — only an interest in learning how intellectual property drives innovation and economic growth.
Content and Structure
The course comprises 13 modules and a final exam.
Modules 1–13 cover the main branches of intellectual property, including:
Module 13: Protection of New Varieties of Plants in accordance with the 1991 Act of the UPOV Convention
Learning Outcomes (Module 13)
After completing the study of this module, you should be able to:
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Explain the role of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV).
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Explain why farmers, growers, and consumers need new plant varieties and the role of plant variety protection.
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Explain who is entitled to a breeder’s right and the subject matter of protection.
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List the requirements for a new plant variety to be protected.
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Identify the scope of the breeder’s right and the exceptions to the breeder's right.
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Define the duration of protection and the role of provisional protection.
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Explain the benefits of plant variety protection and UPOV membership.
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Explain procedures for registration of a plant variety on the national plant variety list in Rwanda.
Note: Estimated study time for this module — about 4 hours.
Final Examination
The final exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is conducted online within a fixed timeframe.
Participants will be notified of exam details one week before the examination period begins.