With the participation of over 100 universities from both countries, the Iraqi-Iranian Science Week kicks off in Karbala, accompanied by the signing of an executive program between the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and its Iranian counterpart.

The Iraqi-Iranian Science Week commenced in the holy city of Karbala, with the participation of over 100 universities from Iraq and Iran.

In his opening speech, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi, attended by representatives from the Parliamentary Education Committee, the Governor of Karbala, the Chairman of its Council, university presidents, general directors, and cultural advisors, emphasized that the second edition of the Iraqi-Iranian Science Week aims to transition into practical application. The focus will include exchanging scientists, professors, and researchers, implementing research and technological projects, promoting cultural exchange, offering scholarships, holding specialized workshops, stimulating technical and professional cooperation, and establishing joint science and technology parks.

Dr. Al-Aboudi highlighted that the Iraqi government, particularly the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, has achieved positive indicators in the internationalization of education and sustainable development. He noted Iraq’s significant advancement in international rankings, driven by an intense focus on scientific research and a growth in global publishing metrics. He also emphasized that quality education in Iraqi universities has secured international accreditation, ensuring the academic rigor of study programs and degrees.

For his part, Iran’s Minister of Science, Research, and Technology, Dr. Hossein Simayee Sarraf, expressed gratitude for the high level of organization of the joint science week. He underscored the importance of scientific collaboration between the two countries’ universities and enhancing their standing in global rankings.

The two sides signed an executive program between the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, which includes several key points:
– *Enhancing joint collaboration through scholarship programs* for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, particularly under the “Study in Iraq” initiative.
– *Organizing training workshops* for faculty members and students.
– *Encouraging cooperation in joint scientific supervision.*
– *Facilitating the exchange of university professors* for conducting joint scientific research and delivering lectures in their areas of expertise.
– *Establishing a joint science park* in Iraq under the administration of the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The opening ceremony featured official speeches, scientific presentations, and the honoring of several distinguished individuals.