According to the University of Science and Culture's Public Relations Office, the Tajikistani Ambassador to Iran, Mr. Nizomiddin Zohidi, met with Dr. Mehdi Basooli, the university president, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. During this meeting, both parties exchanged ideas on strengthening academic, educational, research, and cultural collaborations.

Dr. Basooli began by highlighting the university's accomplishments and close relationship with Jihad-e-Daneshgahi research institutes, which he described as essential to the university's role within Iran’s innovation ecosystem. He shared that the university has approximately 120 faculty members, 9,000 students, 700 visiting lecturers, and around 23,000 alumni. Dr. Basooli further noted that the university ranks as the top non-governmental institution in Iran, holds first place in the ISC ranking, and is the only non-profit university in Iran listed in the Times Higher Education ranking. The university’s National Park for Soft Technology and Cultural Industries is among its unique assets.

Dr. Basooli emphasized the significance of the Persian language, noting its prominence in both countries’ national anthems, and expressed hopes that this shared cultural heritage would lead to fruitful academic, research, and cultural partnerships that promote knowledge and progress in both nations.

Proud to Be Here at a Leading Iranian University

Ambassador Zohidi expressed his gratitude for the invitation: "Today, I am pleased to be here at a distinguished university of the Islamic Republic of Iran.” He added that his visit felt like a return home, given the shared history and culture between Iran and Tajikistan. He emphasized the ample opportunities for scientific collaboration rooted in the countries’ shared language, culture, and heritage.

Zohidi noted that cultural ties have been pivotal in the 33-year relationship between Tajikistan and Iran, creating a solid foundation for joint endeavors. He pointed out that more than 40% of the agreements between the two countries pertain to cultural, scientific, and academic collaboration.

The ambassador outlined potential areas of cooperation, including student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, publication of research papers, and organization of cultural festivals and short-term training programs. He emphasized his role as a facilitator and expressed optimism about advancing collaborative efforts with the University of Science and Culture.

Building Cultural Solidarity and Creating Value

Dr. Majid Najjarzadeh, Vice President for Education and Graduate Studies, echoed the ambassador’s sentiments, stating, “We do not feel like we are from two separate countries. Given our shared cultural ties, we naturally share many common goals and aspirations.” Dr. Najjarzadeh highlighted the university’s mission to create cultural value and stressed the importance of fostering cultural solidarity.

He added that regional connections are essential to the university’s focus on innovation and expressed hope for progress in this area.

University Ready to Collaborate with Tajikistani Institutions

Dr. Ali Sa’dollah, Vice President for Research and Technology, reiterated the university's commitment to scientific, educational, research, and cultural partnerships with Tajikistani universities. He suggested various avenues for collaboration, including Persian-language scientific partnerships, joint conferences, shared cultural events, and celebratory occasions.

The visit concluded with Ambassador Zohidi and his delegation touring different University of Science and Culture sections.