COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) had the privilege of hosting Dr. Abol Fazl Vahedi, the Iranian Deputy Minister for Science, Research, and Technology, alongside Mr. Mohammad Ghavidel, the International Advisor on April 17, 2025. The guests were accompanied by Mr. Irfan Haye, Additional Director/Incharge of Programs, and Mr. Farhan Ansari, Deputy Director of Programs at the COMSATS Secretariat. The primary aim of the Deputy Minister's visit was to explore potential avenues for collaboration between CUI and Iran's higher education sector, marking a significant step towards strengthening mutual academic relations.
Upon their arrival, a warm welcome was extended by Dr. Hammad Omer, T.I., Head of the International Office, and his team. The delegates were given a comprehensive tour of CUI’s renowned Junaid Zaidi Library.
Subsequently, a productive meeting was held between the Iranian delegates and senior CUI officials including Prof. Dr. Shams ul Qamar, Registrar; Prof. Dr. Sajjad A. Madani, Controller of Examinations; Prof. Dr. Shahzad A. Malik, Dean, Faculty of Engineering; and Dr. Hammad Omer, T.I., Head of the International Office.
The discussions in the meeting primarily centered around the potential for enhancing academic cooperation between CUI and Iranian universities. Dr. Omer presented an in-depth overview of CUI, emphasizing the university's existing collaborations with Iran and outlining several potential areas for further academic engagements with Iranian institutions. CUI's commitment to research excellence was also highlighted in the presentation. The Registrar and the Controller of Examinations explained about the university's growing number of research publications, many of which have been featured in high-impact factor journals underscoring CUI's strong capacity to contribute meaningfully to international research initiatives.
Dr. Vahedi expressed a keen interest in deepening collaboration between CUI and Iranian universities, particularly through joint research initiatives and student exchange programs. He extended a formal invitation to CUI faculty to visit Iranian universities, further paving the way for long-term partnerships that will benefit both academic communities. The interaction set the stage for future initiatives that will not only strengthen ties between CUI and Iranian educational institutions but also contribute to broader regional cooperation in science, research, and technology.
At the conclusion of the meeting the delegates were presented with CUI mementos. The visiting delegates were highly appreciative of CUI's modern infrastructure and the high standards of its academic and research facilities. They expressed their gratitude for the hospitality extended by the university during their visit.
