Australian Ambassador Visits University of Isfahan: A Step Toward Strengthening International Academic Cooperation

On Monday, May 5, 2025, Mr. Ian McConville, Ambassador of Australia to the Islamic Republic of Iran, accompanied by his spouse, Ms. Elizabeth McCutcheon, visited the University of Isfahan and met with Professor Rasoul Roknizadeh, President of the University.
In a warm and constructive meeting, Professor Roknizadeh expressed optimism about expanding academic ties between Iran and Australia. He emphasized that the presence of over 120,000 Iranians living in Australia presents a valuable opportunity for promoting educational and scientific cooperation. He also highlighted the achievements of University of Isfahan graduates at top Australian universities—particularly the University of Melbourne—as a solid foundation for building deeper collaboration.
Ambassador McConville praised the University of Isfahan as an institution with a strong knowledge base, academic excellence, and forward-looking initiatives. He commended its commitment to research, innovation, and industry engagement, noting that the University Innovation Zone, which brings together key industries, incubators, and startups, is a strategic and impactful initiative for national development.
During his visit, the Ambassador also met with faculty members of the University of Isfahan who are graduates of leading Australian universities, and welcomed the opportunity to explore ways to further academic exchange and collaboration between Iranian and Australian institutions.
He also held discussions with the university’s internationalization team, and toured the University Museum and Archive Center, where he expressed admiration for the university’s historical legacy and ongoing contributions to higher education in Iran.
The University of Isfahan looks forward to building upon this visit to foster meaningful partnerships with Australian universities in the areas of joint research, faculty and student exchange, and collaborative academic programs.