The 8th YSF concluded at the Allameh Amini Hall in the Central Library of the University of Tehran. According to the festival’s permanent secretariat, Dr. Simaei Sarraf, the Minister of Science, Research, and Technology, praised the holding of this festival and the efforts of the University of Tehran, describing it as a service to science and technology. He remarked, “This commendable initiative can serve as a model to encourage young researchers.”
Dr. Fatemeh Mohajerani, the Government Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of recognizing individual potential in her speech, highlighting the role of diverse scientific awards at the student and school levels. She noted that individuals should receive education appropriate to their capacities, following the provision of general, free education. She also stressed the need to link personal capabilities with societal needs.
Dr. Mohajerani highlighted the importance of platforms that connect individual talents with societal issues and praised those organizations contributing to this cause by helping identify challenges.
She mentioned that the Young Scientists Festival is organized in collaboration with the University of Tehran and a private economic foundation, acknowledging their decision to invest in this domain over other economic areas as noteworthy and commendable.
Dr. Seyed Hossein Hosseini, President of the University of Tehran, emphasized that the festival’s focus on basic sciences is encouraging for young researchers, potentially inspiring future leaders in the field. He also appreciated the festival’s emphasis on entrepreneurship, describing the blend of basic sciences with entrepreneurial spirit as both crucial and inspiring for young people.
Dr. Mahmoud Kamarei, President of YSF, highlighted the festival’s status as a prominent national event with the Ministry of Science’s support, stating, “We must progress through three stages for scientific advancement in the country: research papers, which alone solve no issues; achieving scientific breakthroughs; and the crucial third stage—simplifying and enhancing human life quality. We hope this festival provides young scholars with the opportunity to journey from the first to the third stage.”
President of YSF, noted the festival’s journey, mentioning that 407 ideas were submitted in the idea section, and after a thorough evaluation, 10 teams were selected. In the start-up section, 52 teams participated, with four chosen as winners.
Eng. Ebrahim Jamili, President of YSF Policy-making Council and President of the Jamili Science and Technology Foundation, stated that the festival’s goal is to bridge science and wealth. He added, “We are passionate about Iran and must build it for ourselves and future generations. We invite innovators to propose solutions to the country’s challenges, addressing production shortages and developmental obstacles.”
Dr. Reza Ameri, YSF Director, emphasized the importance of basic sciences and investment in this field. He noted that while basic sciences might seem like ways to satisfy curiosity in labs, they have played a critical role in technological and human advancement.
Regarding the Jamili Science and Technology Foundation, he described its work as a neglected model in our society. He emphasized the role of communities and NGOs in supporting universities globally to turn ideas into practical applications, building trust in a promising future by utilizing education to develop products used in society.
Dr. Seyed Mahmoud Reza Aghamiri, President of Shahid Beheshti University, also spoke about the significance of basic sciences and the festival’s standing and value.
Other programs of the YSF included commending the winners and appreciating the YSF’s Scientific and business arbitration committee.
