Dr. Farzad Parvizpour, Director of International Affairs of the University, participated in the First Conference on “New Horizons in International Scientific Activities of Universities, Educational, Research, and Technology Institutions,” held on June 15–16, 2026, jointly hosted by the University of Tehran and Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

The conference brought together university leaders, higher education policymakers, members of parliament, and experts in international affairs to discuss strategies for expanding international scientific cooperation, attracting international students, enhancing the global standing of Iranian universities, and strengthening the country's scientific diplomacy.

Commenting on the event, Dr. Parvizpour noted that consolidating and enhancing Iran’s international scientific and technological position, expanding cross-border academic collaborations, and leveraging regional opportunities are among the key priorities of the national higher education system in advancing the internationalization of universities.

The conference addressed a wide range of topics, including the Seventh National Development Plan’s target of enrolling 320,000 international students, the opportunities and challenges associated with international student recruitment, the need to improve administrative structures and admission quality, the transition from a defensive approach to proactive scientific diplomacy, scientific branding, and the enhancement of Iran’s scientific authority and global academic reputation.

Speakers also emphasized the role of universities as driving forces of scientific diplomacy, the importance of national synergy for effective international engagement, the circulation of talent and expertise, technology transfer, and the contribution of science to addressing global challenges. University diplomacy was highlighted as a strategic instrument for expanding academic interactions, overcoming international constraints, and strengthening the country’s scientific position on the global stage.

Other key themes discussed during the conference included the role of international students as cultural ambassadors, the need to redefine scientific diplomacy, the protection of scientific and human capital, and the importance of science as a source of national strength and influence.

In addition, specialized panels sessions were held under the titles “New Horizons in International Student Recruitment: Challenges and Experiences in Degree, Professional, Skills-Based, Short-Term, and Virtual Education Programs, as well as International Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Exchanges and Collaborations among Universities and International Associations” and “Strategies for Improving the Global Rankings of Iranian Universities and Assessing the Challenges in the Implementation of Memoranda of Understanding.” These panels explored practical approaches to enhancing universities’ international activities, increasing the effectiveness of scientific cooperation, and improving the global ranking and visibility of Iranian higher education institutions.

Dr. Parvizpour’s participation in this conference provided a valuable opportunity to become acquainted with the latest national policies, strategies, and best practices in the field of higher education internationalization and the development of academic and scientific partnerships worldwide.