Bonab, Iran – A delegation from the University of Bonab, led by its President, Dr. Behzad Binesh, undertook a working visit to two leading universities in Erzurum, Turkey, on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The visit was conducted as part of the University of Bonab's ongoing strategy to expand its international academic partnerships.
The delegation's itinerary commenced at Atatürk University with an official meeting with the institution's President, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation in scientific research, academic education, and joint scholarly initiatives. Key areas of dialogue included the implementation framework for collaborative research projects, the establishment of faculty and student exchange programs, and the creation of specialized study opportunities for graduate students and academic staff.
Subsequently, the delegation conducted a tour of several key facilities at Atatürk University, including a number of its faculties, research institutes, and the extensively equipped Central Research Laboratory (DAYTAM). This segment of the visit provided significant insight into the host university's advanced educational methodologies, its portfolio of applied research, and its models for successful industry engagement.
The delegation then proceeded to Erzurum Technical University (ETÜ), where they were received by President Prof. Dr. Bülent Çakmak and members of the university's senior administration. The parties convened to explore potential avenues for collaboration within engineering and technological disciplines. The visit included detailed presentations and tours of the university's premier innovation centers, specifically the High Technology Application and Research Center (YUTAM) and the Crystal Entrepreneurship Center, where ongoing projects and research activities were showcased.
A principal outcome of these consultations was the formal extension of the collaborative agreements between the University of Bonab and both Atatürk University and Erzurum Technical University. These agreements have been renewed for a further five-year term, thereby establishing a reinforced foundation for future academic and scientific cooperation.
Atatürk University is a foundational institution within the Turkish higher education system which was established in Erzurum in 1957. It maintains a significant position, supporting a combined on-campus and distance learning cohort of over 300,000 students, and is consistently ranked among the leading universities in international rankings.
Erzurum Technical University (ETÜ) is recognized as a specialized institution in engineering and technology, and ETÜ has established itself as a prominent center for education and research in Eastern Turkey, with a focused expertise in modern technological fields.
This delegation marks a significant step forward in the internationalization efforts of the University of Bonab and is anticipated to yield substantial mutual benefits through the deepened academic ties with these esteemed Turkish institutions.