Applications Open For National Innovation Competition 2022

Individuals and organisations are being invited to submit applications for the 2022 staging of the National Innovation Competition.

The biennial event is held in collaboration with the National Commission on Science and Technology (NCST) and the Scientific Research Council (SRC) to promote science and technology in Jamaica.

Entrants have up to July 31 to express their interest in one of eight outlined categories. These are education and popularisation of science, technology and innovation; agriculture, food and agro-processing; energy and energy efficiency; information and communications technology; entertainment products; environmental sustainability/climate change; health and safety; and engineering and manufacturing.

Senior Technology Officer of the NCST, Kristina Barrett Harrison, said aspirants must first consult with the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) before applying.

This is to ensure that they along with their innovations are protected. Application forms must also bear JIPO’s seal and be mailed to the NCST’s Kingston address or emailed to ncst@mset.gov.jm.

Qualified innovations must be able to improve quality of life, display creativity, and demonstrate economic use of material(s) available locally or that are indigenous to Jamaica.

“Also, they must be original creations, or unique adaptations of existing gadgets, equipment, concepts, processes, products, or services with social or economic benefit. The innovations must have realised or have the potential for commercialisation and be safe for use and are environmentally friendly,” Mrs. Barrett Harrison said.

More details on the specific criteria for the categories are available on the NCST’s website at www.ncst.gov.jm.

In 2020, the competition was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though the virus continues to spread, the NCST is determined to acknowledge innovators this time around because of the impact this has had over the years.

Executive Director of the NCST, Dr. Olive-Jean Burrowes, said the competition sends a critical message to youth, especially girls, with interest in science and technology.

“Globally, there is a focus on gender equality and underserved communities. The NCST aims to target females and underserved communities, but we are also seeking to create a culture of innovation and to promote awareness of the benefits of science and technology to national development. The awards ceremony is one way to recognise and reward individuals who are engaged in science and technology, and it encourages others to get involved,” Dr. Burrowes said.

The awards ceremony is set for November 16, 2022, at The Jamaica Pegasus.