Building Global Partnerships for Water Research and Education

The Water Matters Laboratory (WML) had the privilege of representing the WaterChair, KNTU Faculty of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, in two recent initiatives aimed at fostering international academic collaboration. These events brought together esteemed institutions and researchers from across borders, opening new pathways for cooperation in water research, education, and innovation. 1. Trilateral Meeting at Kharazmi University: Organized by Dr. Hadi Aliakbarian, Director of the KNTU Office of International Affairs, and hosted by Kharazmi University on May 27, 2025, this gathering convened a high-level delegation from Al Iraqia University to explore potential avenues for scientific, educational, and research partnerships. 2. Online Introductory Meeting with Faculty of Water, University of Public Service (UPS-FWS): Organized by Dr. Karim Alizad of the SHENS Lab on May 29, 2025, this virtual event focused on discussing joint initiatives and collaboration opportunities with the esteemed Faculty of Water at the University of Public Service. Representing the WaterChair, KNTU Faculty of Civil Engineering, our director, Dr. Mohammad Javad Ostad Mirza Tehrani, shared insights on the core research activities taking place at Water Matters Laboratory (WML), SHENS Lab, PINTEL CENTER, and other affiliated laboratories. These discussions laid the groundwork for potential interdisciplinary collaborations, including faculty and student exchanges, as well as the development of joint undergraduate and postgraduate programs. At WML and SHENSLab, we believe that cross-border partnerships are essential to tackling water-related challenges. By fostering joint research, academic exchange, and knowledge co-creation, we can drive innovative solutions and make a meaningful impact in the field. We look forward to transforming these conversations into tangible, impactful collaborations with our esteemed partners. Special thanks to all participants for their valuable contributions: Khamis A. Zidan, Hayfa Mahmoud Farhad, Emad Ibrahim Ahmed, Ali Salih Hussein, Kourosh Hejazi, Behrouz Asgarian, REZA ESLAMI-FARSANI, Mahmoud Hadizadeh, Mahdi Mashkoori, Enikő Anna Tamás, Tamás Pálvölgyi, Zsolt Cimer, Tibor Biro, Seyed Hossein Mohajeri, and Seyed Hossein Hosseini