His Majesty King Abdullah stressed on Tuesday that investing in scientific research and backing innovations of young people is key to realizing the desired changes for progress and advancement.
The King made the remarks today at the inauguration of the Jordan Innovation Centre (JIC) in Irbid, which serves as an incubator for innovative projects designed by fresh graduates and researchers.
King Abdullah urged investors, industrialists and workers in the scientific research field to cooperate and build partnerships by adopting projects that would reflect positively on the progress of development in the country.
The centre was established in cooperation between industrialists at Al Hassan Industrial Estate, the Jordan University of Science and Technology, Yarmouk University, the Jordan Chamber of Industry and the Jordan Engineers Association, among other key industrial and academic institutions.
Amer Majali, CEO of the Industrial Estates Corporation, said the centre would link the academic field with the labour market.
He said a feasibility study was carried out prior to the establishment of the JIC, adding that it will be the prototype for similar centres in other industrial estates in Amman, Karak, Aqaba and Maan.
According to Majali, participants will receive a range of technical, business and financial services in addition to fully furnished offices with PCs, telephones and Internet access.
The centre also offers shared secretarial, printing, copying and fax services, and a meeting room.
With regard to business services, the centre offers 10 to 20 days of free consulting for all “incubatees” in several arenas, including company formation and registration, business planning, feasibility studies, marketing and communications strategy, market analysis, and financial strategy and planning.
It also provides help with patent, copyright and trademark application management.
In addition, the centre's staff will help the incubatees with the financial needs of their enterprises such as investment readiness and access to funding.
Also on Tuesday, King Abdullah marked the city of Irbid's 125th anniversary by laying the foundation stone for the King Abdullah II Park project.
The JD7 million endeavour, which is a gift from the King, is expected to be completed within two years and will be established over a 250-dunum area in the southern part of Irbid.
Irbid Mayor Walid Masri said the park would function as a recreation site as there is a shortage of park in the governorate, in addition to providing social and cultural venues.
“The park will include facilities for people with special needs as well as restaurants, an aviary, sports fields and parking lots,” according to the mayor.
In addition, King Abdullah was briefed on a project to develop and revive the centre of Irbid.
The king also honoured former Irbid mayors for their achievements.
The Jordan Times