School of Health Management and Information Sciences at Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) has officially welcomed a cohort of international students from Iraq, marking not only the commencement of a shared academic journey but also a significant step in expanding cultural and university-level relations between the two countries.

During an official orientation ceremony, Dr. Asgar Aghaei, the faculty's International Affairs Director, extended a warm greeting to the new arrivals. He highlighted the faculty's prestigious status as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center in hospital management. Emphasizing the importance of their presence, Dr. Aghaei stated that the international students could serve as scientific and cultural ambassadors for the faculty in Iraq and noted that their enrollment is a source of pride for the institution. He further announced that, in response to the students' requests, their academic programs have commenced effective this semester, with dedicated facilities and spaces arranged to support both their educational and extracurricular cultural activities.

Expressing his delight at hosting the students, Dr. Aziz Rezapour, Dean of the Faculty, described the institution as the first and foremost specialized center in its domain. He provided an overview of the academic disciplines, faculty board members, educational departments, and the Health Management Research Institute. Referring to the Iraqi students as "religious brothers," Dr. Rezapour reaffirmed the faculty’s strong commitment to ensuring their proper and dignified reception throughout their studies.

Subsequently, Dr. Sudabeh Vatankhah, Head of the Health Services Management Department, welcomed the students by underscoring the faculty's 40-year legacy and its unique standing within the Eastern Mediterranean region. Dr. Leila Nemati, the faculty's Education Director, also wished the students great success and echoed the hope that they would effectively act as scientific and cultural envoys for the institution upon their return to Iraq.

Dr. Haleh Ayatollahi, Director of Research and Technology, framed the students' arrival as a valuable opportunity for collaborative research, assuring them that the faculty is fully prepared to support joint academic projects. Additionally, Dr. Shandiz Moslehi, Director of the Education Development Office, pledged the faculty's comprehensive backing in all educational matters.

In the concluding segment of the ceremony, the Iraqi students introduced themselves. One student cited the faculty's distinguished reputation as the premier institution in the region as the primary motivation for their choice. Collectively, they expressed their hope that this academic endeavor would lay the groundwork for even broader and deeper scientific ties between Iran and Iraq.