Gonabad University of Medical Sciences (GMU)

Office of International Affairs (OIA)

1. Mission, Vision, and Core Objectives

Mission Statement

The Office of International Affairs at Gonabad University of Medical Sciences (GMU) is dedicated to advancing the university’s global impact by facilitating international partnerships, nurturing scientific diplomacy, and fostering academic/research exchange in health sciences — with a regional focus on the Middle East and Central Asia.

Vision Statement

To be recognized as a leading Iranian medical university with robust international collaborations, exemplary engagement in cutting-edge medical science fields (e.g., AI in medicine), and a platform for health innovation, student/faculty mobility, and academic diplomacy throughout the Middle East and Central Asia.

Objectives

• Establish and expand international academic and research partnerships, especially with institutions in the Middle East and Central Asia.
• Promote exchange programs, joint research, and scientific dialogue centered on priority health topics, including the application of AI in Medical Sciences.
• Enhance GMU visibility at ministerially endorsed international scientific congresses and forums.
• Advance regional healthcare education and practice by sharing expertise and developing collaborative programs.
• Implement robust documentation/reporting for all international activities to enhance transparency and facilitate effective impact measurement.

2. Organizational Structure

Overview

The Office of International Affairs (OIA) at GMU operates under the university’s main administrative structure, reporting directly to the President and coordinating closely with academic/research departments. Key roles:

• Director of OIA: Oversees strategy, MOUs, and international policy. Dr. Mojtaba Emkani currently holds this position.

Dr. Mojtaba Emkani 
(Director of Office of International Affairs)

• Regional Outreach Taskforce: Responsible for engagement with international institutes, particularly Middle East and Central Asian partners; tasks inferred from the nature of partnerships/events

3. Future Plans & Regional Role

• Intensify Regional Collaborations: Expand the number and depth of institutional partnerships.
• Enhance Impact Reporting: Respond to current gaps by instituting systems for tracking metrics, outcomes, and success stories of all international activities.
• Position GMU as a Regional Hub: Seek ministerial support for further congress organization and training programs, aiming to become a recognized node for academic and research exchange in the Middle East.
• Broaden Scope of Activities: Develop recruitment, alumni engagement, and additional joint programs with diverse Global and Middle Eastern institutions.