ISTT Leads First National Capacity-Building Program for Future Science and Technology Park Managers.

ISTT Leads First National Capacity-Building Program for Future Science and Technology Park Managers.
Oct. 4, 2025

The first National Empowerment Program for Future Managers of Science and Technology Parks was successfully held on October 1–2, 2025, at the Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST). The program was organized with the support of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology and Isfahan Science and Technology Town (ISTT), while its scientific design, coordination, and implementation were led by the UNESCO Regional Centre for Development of Science and Technology Parks (IRIS), hosted by ISTT.

The initiative was launched in line with Iran’s Seventh National Development Plan and national science, technology, and innovation policies, with the objective of developing a new generation of capable leaders for the country's innovation ecosystem. As the world's only UNESCO Category II Centre dedicated to science and technology parks, IRIS leveraged ISTT's extensive expertise and international network to deliver a comprehensive national training program for emerging managers and decision-makers.

The two-day program brought together senior government officials, experienced executives, and leading experts in science, technology, innovation, and policy. Participants attended keynote speeches and specialized panel discussions addressing strategic management, innovation governance, international cooperation, and the future development of science and technology parks in Iran.

The opening ceremony was chaired by Dr. Mohammad Nabi Shahiki-Tash, Chairperson of IRIS Centre, while all sessions were moderated by Ms. Mozhgan Yazdianpour, Director of the Department of International Scientific Cooperation at ISTT & Director of IRIS Centre. Through interactive discussions and expert-led exchanges, the program provided participants with valuable insights and practical experiences to strengthen leadership capabilities and strategic thinking.

To ensure the sustainability of this national initiative, the National Secretariat for Human Resource Development and Managerial Empowerment was established at Isfahan Science and Technology Town in April 2025. In addition, a dedicated steering committee has been formed to oversee the design and implementation of specialized national and international training programs for managers and future leaders of science and technology parks across the country.

By leading this initiative through IRIS Centre, Isfahan Science and Technology Town continues to strengthen its role as a national hub for innovation capacity building and international cooperation, contributing to the development of skilled leadership for Iran's science and technology ecosystem.