Sharif University President warns of scientific isolation

Masoud Tajrizi, President of Sharif University of Technology, has expressed concerns regarding a proposed legislative plan in the Iranian Parliament aimed at ‘combating foreign influence.’ Tajrizi warned that if the plan is codified into law, it could impose extensive bureaucratic requirements for verifying scientific and international activities.

He cautioned that such measures might reduce Iran’s already limited international academic interactions to near zero, potentially leading to scientific isolation. Tajrizi argued that instead of creating new layers of approval for researchers seeking to publish or collaborate abroad, the country should focus on strengthening existing institutions to manage influence.

Separately, Hojatoleslam Anvari, head of the representative office of the Supreme Leader in provincial universities, addressed university officials regarding the responsibilities of leadership within the Islamic system. He emphasized that administrative roles carry social and religious obligations, urging managers to maintain conduct that aligns with the values of the system and to be active in their social responsibilities.