The Innovation Hub's CEO elected to IASP International Board of Directors

Dr Neville Comins at the IASP Conference in Begamo, Italy where he was elected as the first African representative to the newly constituted IASP Board. Newly elected to the IASP Board: ltr Treasurer: Pierre Bélanger (Laval Technopole, Canada), President: Raivo Tamkivi (Tehnopol - Tallinn Technology Park, Estonia) and Vice-President: Chachanat Thebtaranonth (Thailand Science Park, Thailand).

The Innovation Hub has added yet another feather in its cap with the election of CEO Dr Neville Comins to the international board of directors of the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) in Bergamo, Italy on 22 September 2004.

The IASP Board consists of an executive board of three members, the presidents of its five regional divisions and directors elected by members present at the General Assembly from a range of countries including Estonia, Spain, Sweden, France, Portugal, the United Kingdom and of course, South Africa. Neville is the first representative for Africa elected to the Board.

Commenting on the significance of his election he said, "This gives Africa the opportunity to enhance its contribution in the global community of Science Parks. There is growing interest in Science Parks in many parts of our continent, so having a representative in this forum augurs well for regional economic development."

The Association provides a global network for Science and Technology Parks and innovation based business incubators, while driving growth, internationalisation and effectiveness for its members. It offers members a listing in the IASP directory, as well as permanent networking assistance.

Science Parks worldwide are responsible for promoting economic development and increasing competitiveness of their regions and cities. They add value to business endeavours, create innovative new enterprises, foster entrepreneurship and enhance the synergy between universities and companies. The Innovation Hub has recorded significant milestones in this regard and is set to have an even greater impact when it moves to its permanent site at the end of 2004.

[Back to top]

Next