Cultural exchange programs bearing fruits

IRAN and Zimbabwe have strengthened cultural relations by implementing programmes to promote the understanding of cultures between the two nations through exchange visits.

The Cultural Counsellor at the Cultural Centre of Iran in Harare, Dr Mohsen Shojakhani, said various Memoranda of Understanding signed between Iran and Zimbabwe Universities are bearing fruit.

The development is in line with the Zimbabwe Government’s vision for education which has seen the country establishing at least 10 universities in the past 15 years.

Dr Shojakhani said the Cultural Centre enjoys good relations with most universities in Zimbabwe. “Prof Hope Sadza, (the) Vice Chancellor of Women University, signed a MoU with Alzahra University of Iran and it is now nearing implementation level,” said Dr Shojakhani

“There are two MoUs which were signed between the University of Zimbabwe and the University of Tehran and they are meant to foster academic and cultural exchange.

“This does not mean the exchange of professors or lectures only, but it also encompasses sending Zimbabwean students to study the Islamic culture and religion, among other programs in Iran.

“In May this year we are sending one UZ professor to Iran for a three-week sabbatical and this will be an ongoing exercise. Currently an Iranian Professor, Yahya Jahangiri, is here in Zimbabwe lecturing at the University of Zimbabwe in the department of Religious Studies.”

Dr Shojakhani said they are looking forward to sending more students on study scholarships to Iran.

He said the centre does not discriminate against anyone in the selection of eligible students for study in Iran.

“Students submit their Curricula Vitae and results slips or certificates and we send them to the Department of Academic Exchange in Iran. They then consult various universities there and based on the results, they send acceptance letters to fortunate students.

“Likewise professors forward their academic papers and after careful considerations, they are engaged,” said Dr Shojakhani.

He noted that the synergies that have been created by the MoUs could also be better enhanced through joint cooperation between Zimbabwe and Iran universities as well as with the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Iran.

Dr Shojakhani said the cultural centre held exhibitions to promote the cultures of both Zimbabwe and Iran. According to him, the exhibitions “promoted Iranian culture since most people in Zimbabwe have little knowledge of Islamic Republics”.