Dr Habibollah Tabatabaian Appointed Acting Head of ATU Science and Technology Park

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Shoja Ahmadvand, President of Allameh Tabataba'i University, stressed the importance of establishing a coherent structural and physical identity for the Park. He noted that realising its strategic goals depends on developing widespread academic consensus and enlisting dynamic, motivated young talent. While expressing appreciation for the dedicated contributions of the outgoing director, Dr Dariush Salimi (who will continue his academic collaboration with the university), Dr Ahmadvand formally introduced Dr Habibollah Tabatabaeian as the new caretaker, marking the commencement of a new chapter in the Park's operations.

Dr Ahmadvand underscored the unique founding mission of ATU's Science and Technology Park, emphasising that it must not merely replicate conventional industrial models. Instead, he argued that the facility must serve the advancement of the humanities, translating faculty and student research into societal empowerment and commercialising specialised knowledge in this domain. Calling for a shift from rigid administrative routines to an agile execution model, the President urged the new leadership to actively dismantle infrastructural obstacles and turn university knowledge assets into tangible value in constructive cooperation with national bodies, including the Vice-Presidency for Science and Technology.

In his remarks, Dr Dariush Salimi addressed the primary challenges facing university incubators and science parks, underscoring the vital need for robust managerial, financial, and accounting frameworks. He noted that regularising cash flows and establishing sound financial structures are essential prerequisites for expanding responsibilities, attracting investment, and positioning the park as an economic driver for the university.

Dr Habibollah Tabatabaeian outlined his prospective vision, announcing that a strategic roadmap for the park will be drawn up within the next two months. He stated that the ATU Science and Technology Park should establish itself as a pioneer in creative and cultural industries, drawing upon the shared heritage of Iranian identity and the Persian language across the region. Acknowledging public budgetary constraints, Dr Tabatabaeian highlighted the necessity of engaging the private sector, leveraging cross-institutional networks, and pursuing international partnerships—particularly with Islamic and Persian-speaking countries—to fulfil the park’s broader mission.

The ceremony concluded with Dr Ahmadvand presenting a plaque of appreciation to Dr Dariush Salimi for his service and officially conferring the letter of appointment upon Dr Tabatabaeian.