ORIC-UOS (Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialisation)

In the vibrant and rapidly developing region of Punjab, Pakistan, the pursuit of knowledge extends beyond traditional classrooms. For students, researchers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industries alike, a critical hub for progress and development is the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialisation, widely known as ORIC-UOS. Established at the University of Sargodha, ORIC-UOS is a pivotal institution dedicated to fostering a robust research culture, stimulating innovation, and bridging the gap between academic discoveries and their practical application in society and industry. This article will guide you through what makes ORIC-UOS a cornerstone for local progress, highlighting its mission, services, and impact on the community.

The Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialisation (ORIC) at the University of Sargodha was established on April 2, 2012. Its primary goal is to coalesce the intellectual talents within the university and channel them towards impactful research and development. ORIC-UOS serves as a dynamic platform where interdisciplinary research collaborations flourish, not only among various faculties within the university but also with industries and the broader society. The core purpose is to tackle complex global challenges by leveraging cross-disciplinary knowledge from diverse fields, including agriculture, sciences, computing and IT, arts and humanities, social sciences, engineering and technology, pharmacy, and health sciences. This holistic approach ensures that research is not confined to theoretical frameworks but is actively directed towards providing tangible solutions and policy recommendations that benefit the community.

One of the distinctive aspects of ORIC-UOS is its unwavering commitment to promoting an innovation-centric research and development ecosystem. In conjunction with its state-of-the-art Business Incubation program, ORIC-UOS specifically focuses on supporting design thinking and nurturing the growth of start-ups and scale-ups. By providing advanced technological and business methodologies, it aims to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of these entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, its Innovation and Commercialization Division strives to establish a strong academic foundation that addresses policy, management, and the social design of science, technology, and innovation. The ultimate aim is to facilitate the implementation of appropriate technologies within society through effective commercialization strategies. In essence, ORIC-UOS is a central hub for the collaborative creation of a better future, fostering strong cooperation between academia, government, business, and civil society, making it an invaluable asset for the people of Punjab.

ORIC-UOS is conveniently situated at 3MFJ+QG6, Sargodha, Pakistan. This location places it within the University of Sargodha campus, a well-known and easily identifiable landmark in the city. Sargodha, being a significant urban center in Punjab, offers excellent connectivity, making the office readily accessible to local residents, researchers, and aspiring innovators from across the region. For those relying on public transportation, various local bus routes and rickshaws provide efficient means of reaching the university campus. The integrated location within the university also means that visitors and users of ORIC-UOS have convenient access to other university facilities, such as libraries, dining areas, and academic departments, further enhancing their experience.

The strategic placement of ORIC-UOS within Sargodha ensures that it is not only a functional office but also an integral part of the local academic and professional landscape. For individuals driving their own vehicles, ample parking facilities are generally available within or near the university campus, though it is always advisable to confirm during peak operational hours. The surrounding infrastructure in Sargodha is continually improving, contributing to smooth traffic flow and ease of navigation. This accessibility is paramount, as it encourages greater participation from local businesses, researchers, and students, ensuring that the benefits of ORIC-UOS's initiatives can reach a broader audience within Punjab. The location reflects ORIC-UOS's role as an accessible and collaborative partner in the region's development.

Services Offered:

• Facilitation in the submission of research proposals to national and international funding agencies.
• Provision of funding opportunities for competitive research ideas.
• Training programs for researchers to enhance their skills and capabilities.
• Support for patent filing and Intellectual Property (IP) protection.
• Technology and competitor monitoring services to aid commercialization.
• Assistance in the commercialization of research products and innovations.
• Linkages with national and international organizations for multidisciplinary research collaborations.
• Nurturing and support for start-ups and scale-ups through business incubation.
• Guidance on design thinking and advanced business methodologies.
• Dissemination of evidence-based scientific knowledge through research journals.
• Organizing research conferences, seminars, and workshops.
• Policy recommendations based on research findings to government and industry.
• Bridging laboratory research with commercial potential and solution-focused innovation.

Features / Highlights:

• A central hub for collaborative research and innovation initiatives.
• Strategic focus on interdisciplinary research across various fields.
• Robust Business Incubation program for nurturing new ventures.
• Emphasis on supporting design thinking in entrepreneurial processes.
• Dedicated efforts to establish a strong academic foundation for innovation policy and management.
• Active promotion of technology transfer for societal implementation.
• Strong linkages with academia, government, business, and civil society.
• Regular publication of research journals across seven categories.
• Track record of facilitating numerous academic research grants and travel grants.
• Organizes and participates in numerous research conferences annually.
• Committed to fostering a research culture with strong industrial linkages.
• Drives creativity and innovation to add substantial value to industry and society.
• Supports intellectual property protection and patenting processes.
• Recognized for its contribution to enhancing research productivity within the University of Sargodha.

Promotions or Special Offers:

While ORIC-UOS, as an integral part of a public university, does not engage in typical commercial "promotions," it consistently offers valuable opportunities and support systems for its stakeholders. These include:

• Regular announcements of research grant opportunities from various national and international funding bodies, accessible to faculty and researchers.
• Workshops and training sessions on research methodologies, intellectual property rights, patent filing, and commercialization strategies, often provided at subsidized rates or free of cost for university members and affiliates.
• Mentorship and incubation support for promising start-up ideas through the UOS Business Incubation program, which can include shared office spaces, technical guidance, and networking opportunities.
• Travel grants for faculty and researchers to present their work at national and international conferences, fostering academic exchange and collaboration.
• Access to specialized resources and databases to aid in research and innovation, enhancing the quality and scope of projects undertaken.
• Opportunities for collaboration with industries, leading to potential internships, project funding, and employment for students and researchers.
• Public events, seminars, and expos showcasing innovative projects and research outcomes, which provide visibility and networking chances for aspiring entrepreneurs and researchers. The recent positive feedback about a "Short but productive Meeting with Mr. Ahmad Bilal" hints at the effective engagement facilitated by ORIC-UOS, where meaningful discussions lead to tangible outcomes.

Contact Information:

Address: 3MFJ+QG6, Sargodha, Pakistan (located within the University of Sargodha campus, 1st Floor, STC Building)

Phone: 048-9230783

Email: oric@uos.edu.pk or director.oric@uos.edu.pk

It is always advisable to visit the official University of Sargodha website (su.edu.pk) or the specific ORIC section for the most current contact details and announcements regarding their programs and events.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For the residents of Punjab, particularly those in Sargodha and surrounding areas, ORIC-UOS represents an unparalleled asset for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it stands as a testament to the region's commitment to higher education, research, and economic development. By providing a dedicated platform for innovation and commercialization, ORIC-UOS directly contributes to creating a knowledge-based economy within Punjab. This means more opportunities for local talent to develop groundbreaking ideas and translate them into marketable products and services, fostering job creation and economic growth right here in our community.

Secondly, its strategic location within the University of Sargodha makes it highly accessible for local students, faculty, and entrepreneurs. The ease of access encourages greater participation and collaboration, ensuring that the benefits of research and innovation are widely distributed across the region. This local focus ensures that solutions are tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by our communities, from agricultural advancements to technological improvements and social development initiatives.

Moreover, ORIC-UOS plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators. Through its training programs, mentorship, and incubation facilities, it equips local individuals with the skills and resources necessary to succeed in a competitive global landscape. This local capacity building is essential for sustainable development and ensures that Punjab remains at the forefront of academic and industrial progress. The positive feedback from individuals like "Mr. Ahmad Bilal" further underscores the real-world impact and effectiveness of ORIC-UOS's engagements.

In essence, ORIC-UOS is more than just an office; it's a dynamic ecosystem driving progress, fostering creativity, and building a brighter future for Punjab. For anyone looking to contribute to research, develop innovative solutions, or launch a successful venture, ORIC-UOS at the University of Sargodha is undoubtedly the ideal place to turn dreams into reality, right here in our own backyard.

ORIC-UOS (Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialisation)

3MFJ+QG6, Sargodha, Pakistan