HH Sheikh Moza Opens 31st IASP World Conference

Doha, October 20 (QNA) - Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) opened today the 31st World Conference of the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) which is hosted by Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), one of QF research and development organizations. The four-day event, in which over 500 members of science and technology parks from all over the world are taking part, is being held for the first time in an Arab capital. IASP is the worldwide network of science parks and areas of innovation. IASP connect the professionals managing science, technology and research parks (STPs) and other areas of innovation and provide services that drive growth and effectiveness for their members. The main 2014 conference theme, "Science parks: where technology goes to work" will cover three main subthemes: Role of STPs as technology development catalysts, Models of cooperation between universities and companies and the role that STPs can or should play, STPs and their resident companies: STPs are mainly oriented towards smaller businesses. What is the role of large corporations and multinationals in STPs? How can STPs establish stronger links with big corporations and amongst its tenant companies? The 31st World Conference of the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) keynote speaker Chad Hurley, co-founder of YouTube - the world's largest and most popular video sharing site and the third most visited site globally - spoke inspiring words for delegates at the opening of the annual event. In his address to officials, global technology experts, entrepreneurs and students, Hurley spoke of how the social media channel had become a technological game changer. Hurley discussed the rise of YouTube and managing its meteoric growth. For entrepreneurs in Qatar and delegates of the summit, he shared the lessons learned from his unique experience creating a 'game-changer' in technology. He also gave deep insight into how content is consumed and shared in the modern era. "The YouTube experience taught me that a small group of individuals with the same vision can make a difference and I believe this is very similar to any science and technology park aiming to achieve its goals. My advice to all entrepreneurs and innovators in Qatar is to surround themselves with great individuals who are ready to create solutions for the greater good." He shed light on the ever-evolving landscape of emerging technology, emphasising the critical role that hubs like Qatar Science Technology Park (QSTP) and others play in providing the right support and resources for entrepreneurs. In October of 2007, Chad and his partner sold YouTube to Google, Inc. for US $1.6 Billion and still serves as the company's advisor. Soon after selling YouTube, Chad co-founded AVOS Systems, which is committed to creating platforms and building products that enable individuals to utilise their time more efficiently in their everyday life. Lauding Hurley's work, IASP 2014 Doha Organising Committee Head and QSTP Managing Director Hamad Al Kuwari said, "Chad is one of the most visionary and influential technology entrepreneurs in the last 20 years. "From Silicon Valley to QSTP, Chad's work at YouTube and a host of other successful ventures is the very essence of legend within business, technology, and innovation. As we continue to cultivate and commercialise the next big ideas at QSTP, I am hopeful that entrepreneurs in Qatar and IASP 2014 Doha delegates found inspiration and insight in his words." More than 500 delegates from around the world are attending the conference at the Qatar National Convention Centre. IASP 2014 Doha aims to explore challenges and opportunities of innovation management, with Chief Executive Officers, Chief Financial Officers and other officials setting the agenda for science and technology hubs around the globe. Delegates from the Arab world include Kuwait Industrial Technology Park, Knowledge Oasis Muscat, Riyadh Techno Valley and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia Regional Technology Centre in Jordan. (END)