According to the Khuzestan branch of Webda, a joint meeting was held at the Office of the Chancellor of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences with the presence of Dr. Hatam Boustani, Chancellor of the University, Mr. Seyed Wissam Al-Mousawi, Consul General of Iraq in Ahvaz, accompanied by his delegation, and Dr. Somayeh Biparva, Director of the University’s International Affairs Office.

During the meeting, both sides discussed and exchanged views on expanding scientific, educational, and academic cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Iraq.

One of the main topics of discussion was laying the groundwork for effective collaboration between Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences and universities in southern Iraq, particularly in faculty and student exchanges as well as the implementation of joint scientific projects. It was also agreed that in subsequent sessions, existing obstacles to such cooperation would be identified and addressed through mutual efforts.

Dr. Boustani emphasized that the University’s approach toward international students, especially those from Iraq, is not economically driven, stating:

“Our objective is to provide better education for our students.”

The Chancellor added that the priority in training international students is ensuring cohesive education and producing skilled, knowledgeable graduates who will be able to deliver quality health services to the people of their countries after graduation.

He further noted that, due to Iraq’s shared historical, cultural, political, and geographical ties with Iran, Iraqi students have the potential to serve as cultural, scientific, and friendship ambassadors between the two nations. He stressed that the University strives to ensure that international students, alongside their Iranian peers, graduate with valuable scientific achievements and fond memories before returning to their home countries.

Mr. Al-Mousawi expressed his appreciation for the University’s constructive cooperation, emphasizing that in order to address existing challenges for Iraqi students pursuing studies in Iran—particularly at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences—the Consulate General will actively follow up with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate to facilitate the attraction of more Iraqi students to the University.

In the continuation of the meeting, Dr. Biparva presented a comprehensive report on the University’s position in national and international ranking systems. Referring to the latest reports from reputable global ranking bodies, she highlighted the University’s upward trajectory in scientific, research, and international standings as a clear indicator of its progress.

She stated that the purpose of presenting this report was to showcase the University’s capacities and capabilities as a suitable platform for developing academic cooperation with Iraq, as well as laying the groundwork for increasing international student admissions.

Dr. Biparva also outlined the current enrollment status of Iraqi students across various academic programs and called for support from the Iraqi government to streamline the student dispatch and admission process.

The meeting concluded in a constructive and positive atmosphere, with both sides affirming their commitment to maintaining ongoing engagement and proactively pursuing the agreements reached.