Shahrekord, Iran – November 11, 2026 – Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences (SKUMS) held a joint meeting with the Deputy Director of Lebanon’s Al-Afaq Institute to explore opportunities for expanding academic and educational cooperation and facilitating the enrollment of Lebanese students in the university’s academic programs. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Salehifard, President of SKUMS, and attended by Dr. Zahra Lorigooini, Director of International Affairs; Dr. Sheikhi, Director General of Education and Graduate Studies; Mr. Bahraini, Director of Public Relations and Information; and relevant university experts.

Mr. Qaddar, Deputy Director of Al-Afaq Institute, represented the Lebanese institution. SKUMS Highlights Its Educational Capacity and Readiness to Welcome Lebanese Students During the meeting, Dr. Salehifard welcomed the Lebanese delegation and emphasized the university’s readiness to expand scientific and educational relations with Lebanon and provide opportunities for Lebanese students to pursue higher education at SKUMS. Referring to the friendly relations and shared cultural and religious ties between the two countries, he highlighted the importance of strengthening educational exchanges and creating favorable conditions for Lebanese students interested in studying in Iran. Dr. Salehifard also outlined the university’s experience in international education. He reaffirmed the university’s willingness to explore further opportunities for cooperation and facilitate the admission process for qualified Lebanese applicants. Al-Afaq Institute Presents Its Educational Network and Cooperation Opportunities During the meeting, Mr. Qaddar introduced the educational capacities of Al-Afaq Institute, explaining that the institution operates 12 branches across Lebanon and provides educational services to approximately 4,000 students. Expressing his appreciation for the invitation and hospitality, he emphasized the importance of establishing effective academic and educational connections between the two institutions and expressed hope that joint efforts would lead to meaningful achievements in education and scientific cooperation.

He also highlighted the strong interest among Lebanese young people in pursuing education and academic advancement, while noting that financial difficulties and economic constraints can sometimes prevent students from achieving their educational goals. The Deputy Director expressed the institute’s willingness to explore collaborative approaches to supporting students and helping them access higher education opportunities. Expanding International Academic Partnerships The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss potential areas of cooperation, including introducing SKUMS academic programs to prospective Lebanese students, strengthening student recruitment channels, facilitating admission procedures, and exploring possible mechanisms to support students facing financial challenges. The meeting represents a step toward strengthening SKUMS’s international academic partnerships and expanding its engagement with educational institutions in Lebanon. Continued communication between the two institutions is expected to help identify practical opportunities for cooperation in medical education and international student recruitment.