close
Wednesday July 03, 2024

GCU, five Iranian varsities to collaborate on academic research

By Our Correspondent
July 02, 2024
The Government College University (GCU) Lahore facade is seen in the picture. — AFP/File
The Government College University (GCU) Lahore facade is seen in the picture. — AFP/File

LAHORE:An 11-member delegation of Presidents (Vice Chancellors) from various Iranian universities visited the Government College University (GCU) Lahore on Monday to enhance academic and research collaboration.

The GCU Lahore signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with five Iranian universities: University of Religions and Denominations, Hakim Sabzevari University, Quom University, Islamic Azad University, and Bu-Ali Sina University. The formal ceremony was presided over by the GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Shazia Bashir and attended by prominent figures, including Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mehmood, Home Economics University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Faleeha Zahra Kazmi, and GCU Dean Prof Dr Sultan Shah.

In her welcome address, Prof Dr Shazia Bashir highlighted several GCU initiatives, such as the establishment of a counseling centre for students. She emphasised the importance of international collaboration in advancing educational and research standards. She said MoUs signify a significant step towards strengthening academic and research ties between GCU and leading Iranian universities, fostering an environment of mutual growth and learning. The Iranian delegation expressed their interest in strengthening relations with the universities of neighbouring countries and reviewed the efforts in promoting women's education in Iran and Pakistan. They also showed keen interest in collaborating on Urdu language and literature, underscoring a mutual commitment to enhancing academic and research cooperation between the two nations.

Dr Seyed Abolhassan Navab, head of the Iranian delegation, conveyed his admiration for GCU, stating, "It is an honour for me to visit the alma mater of Allama Iqbal. GCU possesses a wealth of knowledge and youth potential. Pakistan is working not only for itself but also for the world." He highlighted the robust academic ties between Pakistan and Iran and expressed a commitment to future joint endeavors. The Iranian delegation included notable figures such as Dr M Ali Zanganeh Asadi, President of Hakim Sabzevari University; Dr Ali Sorouri Majd, Vice President of Islamic Azad University; and Dr Hossein Rezvan, President of Bu-Ali Sina University.

Iranian varsities team, UOE sign Letter of Intents

An 11-member delegation from Iranian universities visited the University of Education (UOE) here on Monday, marking a significant step in fostering academic collaboration between Pakistan and Iran.

During the visit, a ceremony was held which was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Education Lahore, Prof Dr Muhammad Alam Saeed where three Letter of Intents were signed.

These Letter of Intents focus on key areas of collaboration, including research and knowledge exchange, science and technology, and the development of scientific projects. The Iranian delegation was led by Dr Sayed Abolhassan Navab, founder and chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Religions and Denominations in Iran. The University of Education Lahore's delegation, comprising Principals and Directors, was headed by the Vice Chancellor.

In his address, Prof Dr Muhammad Alam Saeed while emphasising the bonds of brotherhood and neighbourhood shared by the two countries highlighted that the common religious roots strengthen the relationship between Pakistan and Iran.