Tehran and Khartoum Forge New Pathways to Strengthen Scientific Collaboration
In a recent development that highlights the growing importance of international educational partnerships, the head of the Organization of Student Affairs in Iran, Saeed Habiba, met with Sudan’s Ambassador to Tehran, Abdulaziz Hassan Saleh Taha. The focus of their discussions was on enhancing scientific collaborations between Iran and Sudan, aiming to foster a closer relationship and improve educational opportunities for Sudanese students in Iran.
During their meeting in Tehran, Ambassador Saleh Taha emphasized the cultural commonalities and historical ties that exist between Sudan and Iran. He expressed a keen interest in expanding these ties further, stating that Sudan is eager to strengthen its relationship with Iran in various fields, particularly in education.
“These students are cultural and scientific ambassadors of Iran in Sudan,” he noted, referring to the potential impact of Sudanese students studying in Iran. This sentiment was echoed by Sudan’s Deputy Ambassador to Iran, Khalid Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, who mentioned that Sudanese students are generally satisfied with the educational services and living conditions provided in Iran.
Al-Sheikh took pride in the progress being made by Sudanese students, especially in the medical field, and expressed a desire to see even more students admitted to Iranian universities. The commitment to quality education and the reputation of Iranian universities were underscored by Habiba, who detailed the high global rankings of these institutions and Iran’s achievements in various fields, including:
- Biotechnology
- Electronics
- Modern technologies
Habiba also announced that Iran is ready to enhance scientific cooperation by:
- Admitting self-funded Sudanese students
- Granting scholarships
- Providing sabbatical leaves for Sudanese scholars
Currently, there are 23 Sudanese students enrolled in 12 universities across Iran, with 22 percent of them being women. This statistic reflects Iran’s commitment to promoting gender equality in education.
In October 2024, further discussions took place when Javad Mohammadi, the head of Iran’s National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), met with Ambassador Taha to explore ways to bolster scientific relations between the two nations. During a visit to NIGEB, Taha expressed his admiration for Iran’s advancements in biotechnology and genetics, stating, “Iran’s Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology can be a perfect scientific model for establishing universities as well as institutes in Sudan.”
Sudan is particularly interested in enhancing cooperation with Iran concerning the treatment of various illnesses, including cancer and infectious diseases. Taha highlighted the importance of exchanging professors and students, emphasizing a desire to learn from Iran’s valuable experiences in the international scientific arena.
In response, Mohammadi reiterated the Islamic Republic of Iran’s commitment to boosting international cooperation through scientific diplomacy. He welcomed the opportunity for collaboration with other countries, especially Islamic nations, and emphasized the role of NIGEB as a member of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB).
Furthermore, Mohammadi suggested that during pandemics and outbreaks of diseases in African countries, the research institute could work closely with Sudan and other nations to develop detection tools and strategies for disease control. He proposed conducting joint scientific projects and facilitating the exchange of professors and students in genetics and biotechnology as effective methods to enhance cooperation.
Through these discussions and initiatives, both Iran and Sudan are taking significant steps towards strengthening their educational and scientific ties. This collaboration not only benefits the students involved but also contributes to the broader goals of developing innovative solutions to pressing health challenges faced by both nations.
