The closing ceremony of the 7th Young Scientists Festival (YSF) was held at Allameh Amini Hall, University of Tehran, in conjunction with the National Research Week. The event was supported by the Jamili Science and Technology Foundation and attended by prominent figures including:
- Prof. Mohammad Ali Zolfi-Gol, Minister of Science, Research, and Technology
- Prof. Seyed Mohammad Moghimi, President of the University of Tehran
- Prof. Mahmoud Kamarei, President of the Festival
- Mr. Ebrahim Jamili, President of YSF Policy Council
- Dr. Vahid Niknam, Festival Secretary
- Dr. Peyman Salehi, Deputy Minister for Research
- A distinguished group of scholars, professors, and innovators
Mr. Jamili emphasized that supporting young minds, creating employment, and advancing technological progress are today’s key challenges. He stated that the festival aims to support young people’s innovative ideas, startups, and elevate Iran’s scientific standing in the field of technology.
Prof. Kamarei reported that the festival received a total of 335 submissions, including 284 proposals in “idea section” that 33 were selected to proceed to the second stage of judging process. In the “startup section”, 51 proposals were submitted, with 10 business plans and 10 initial ideas advancing. Additionally, 52 young professors submitted their CVs in “young basic science faculty members’ section” and one was selected for the final round.
Prof. Zolfigol praised the Jamili Foundation’s strategic focus on fundamental sciences and its innovative approach to integrating technology into the festival’s organization and management. He further stated that philanthropists who support science and technology are vital investors in the nation’s scientific future and deserve recognition for helping Iranian scientists gain global prominence.
Prof. Moghimi also commended the Jamili Foundation’s role in organizing the festival, which has successfully addressed obstacles in identifying top talent by focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. He also emphasized the festival’s specialized focus on fundamental sciences, describing it as a unique and commendable initiative.
As part of the event, a panel discussion titled “Needs of Innovators: Responsibilities of Government and Private Sector” was held, featuring:
- Dr. Mehdi Elyasi, Deputy for Policy and Development, Vice Presidency for Science and Technology
- Dr. Farzin Fardis, Board Member, Tehran Chamber of Commerce
- Dr. Peyman Salehi, Deputy Minister for Research
- Dr. Iraj Tajeddin, Head of Mining Department at Zarrin Industrial and Mining Group
