Unlocking Sustainable Development: Burkina Faso Seeks Iran’s Expertise for a Greener Future
Burkina Faso’s Ambassador to Tehran, Mohammadi Kaboureh, emphasized the critical role of enhancing scientific cooperation with Iran for the sustainable development of Burkina Faso. During a meeting in Tehran, Kaboureh stated, “Sustainable development without education is improbable; we need Iran’s valuable expertise to achieve the goal. Burkina Faso is determined to enhance cooperation with Iran in all fields, particularly educational and scientific sectors,” as reported by IRNA.
In this pivotal meeting with Saeed Habiba, the head of the Organization of Students Affairs, Kaboureh praised Iran’s initiatives in providing scholarships for Burkinabe students. He expressed hope for increased opportunities for more students to benefit from this educational support.
Habiba echoed these sentiments, stating, “Burkina Faso is one of Iran’s friendly countries, and we are interested in expanding scientific partnership and science diplomacy with the country.” The discussions highlighted the importance of fostering educational exchanges between Iran and Burkina Faso.
According to the seventh national development plan (2023-2027), Burkina Faso aims to attract 3,200 foreign students. Currently, around 500 students from Africa are studying in Iran, with 70 percent of them being male. Notably, only 10 percent of these students receive scholarships. “We are planning to grant scholarships to Burkinabe students for the first time,” remarked an official during the meeting.
Growth of Foreign Students in Iran
The number of foreign students in Iranian universities has seen significant growth. In the last academic year, which commenced on September 22, 2024, a total of 35,000 foreign students were enrolled, a notable increase from 27,000 in 2023, according to Kianoush Suzanchi, an official with the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology. He added, “Almost 62 percent of the students who are studying in Iran are post-graduate students, and we are about to fulfill our goals in scientific authority.”
Furthermore, the official encouraged foreign students to promote the Persian language in their respective countries. In March, Hashem Dadashpour, the former head of the Organization of Student Affairs, announced plans to improve services for international students studying in Iranian universities, as reported by ISNA.
One of the initiatives includes the launch of online language learning systems, allowing applicants to enroll in Persian language courses prior to their arrival in Iran, thus preparing them for their studies. In September 2023, Dadashpour revealed that the Ministry of Science plans to increase the number of international students from around 100,000 to approximately 320,000 by 2026.
Strategic Goals for International Student Attraction
“There was an increase in the number of international students over the sixth National Development Plan (2017-2021). The seventh development plan (2022-2026) has also put increasing the figure to around 320,000 on the agenda,” he explained. Dadashpour identified three main reasons for attracting international students:
- Strengthening scientific authority
- Developing public diplomacy
- Expanding the Persian language
He emphasized that attracting international students is a major strategy for the Ministry of Science. According to Dadashpour, the international campus of universities serves as a center for attracting international students and managing their affairs. However, he stressed that all university vice-chancellors share the responsibility for the welfare of international students, just as they do for Iranian students.
“International students’ attendance at cultural events of the university helps Iranian students to get more familiar with them and their culture,” he added. He also noted that international students could establish their own cultural and artistic organizations, enriching the academic environment.
To ensure a welcoming atmosphere, the infrastructure of the university, along with educational and cultural planning, must be geared towards attracting students. “This will give them a positive view of Iran as they return home,” he mentioned.
Importance of Persian Language Education
The deputy head of the student affairs organization underscored the importance of providing appropriate centers and platforms for teaching the Persian language to international students in universities. Learning the Persian language is deemed a vital prerequisite for studying in Iran, as stated by Dadashpour.
“The 61st meeting was held with the motto of cultural transformation of the university and smart governance,” he added, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance the educational environment for both domestic and international students.
As Iran continues to strengthen its educational ties with Burkina Faso and other countries, the emphasis on scientific collaboration and cultural exchange remains crucial for mutual growth and understanding.
In conclusion, the commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and cooperation between Iran and Burkina Faso represents a significant step towards achieving sustainable development. By fostering these relationships, both nations can benefit from shared knowledge and resources, paving the way for a brighter future.
