Lahore: Punjab University has officially launched its Research, Innovation and Commercialization Policy 2026, aiming to enhance applied research, drive innovation, and create socio-economic impact. The initiative allows faculty members to establish spin-off companies and provides them with 50% to 80% royalty on research products, marking a first for the institution.

According to University of the Punjab, the policy, approved by the Syndicate, was crafted by the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) under the guidance of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali. It emphasizes strong Intellectual Property protection, facilitating both national and international patent registrations. The policy also outlines a transparent revenue-sharing system and offers structured support for securing external research funding.

Faculty members can now access consultancy services through a defined income-sharing model and are encouraged to submit a technology disclosure form to ORIC to preserve patent eligibility. The initiative seeks to enhance research quality, promote industry collaboration, and ensure effective commercialization of intellectual property, aligning with national directives from the Higher Education Commission and Planning Commission.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali stated that the policy aims to boost financial benefits for researchers and improve the university's rankings while contributing to Pakistan's development. Director ORIC Prof. Dr. Aqil Inam noted that the policy is designed to foster an innovation-driven ecosystem at Punjab University, positioning researchers as key contributors to economic and social advancement.