This collaborative initiative seeks to harness the collective strengths and expertise of these institutions to elevate international academic cooperation and propel universities towards global recognition through joint projects and endeavors.

The meeting commenced with an address by Dr. Ali Mirvakili, Director of International Scientific Cooperation Office at Yazd University, who presented a comprehensive overview of the initiatives and activities undertaken by the International Office. He emphasized the importance of active participation from all stakeholders to effectively showcase the province's higher education capabilities.

Dr. Mohammad Bagher Olia, Director of International Scientific Cooperation Office at Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, eloquently articulated the overarching objectives of forming an international consortium for higher education in Yazd, emphasizing the pivotal role it will play in fostering international academic collaborations.

Then, Dr. Ali Dehghani Firouzabadi, the Head of International Affairs at Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, shared valuable insights from the successful establishment of a similar consortium in Isfahan province. He proposed the establishment of an international university or faculty in Yazd, prioritizing partnerships with neighboring and Commonwealth countries, as a strategic approach to further strengthen international ties.

Dr. Seyed Ahmad Fatemi, Director of International Affairs at Yazd Branch of Islamic Azad University, provided a detailed account of the international initiatives and activities undertaken by the institution, including the establishment of a Skills and Entrepreneurship Faculty to bridge the gap between industry and academia, the expansion of Azad University branches internationally, and the launch of an international faculty with a minimum enrollment target of 500 international students.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to continue holding regular sessions until the formal establishment and structuring of the consortium. All participating universities and institutions pledged their unwavering commitment to collaborating effectively in expanding and strengthening international academic activities within the province.

This collective endeavor holds immense promise for propelling Yazd's higher education sector onto the global stage, fostering a better international academic partnerships, and positioning Yazd province as a hub for knowledge exchange and innovation.