The Vice Chancellor for International Affairs at Amirkabir University of Technology (AUT) has emphasized the importance of expanding joint and international academic programs and has called on the University’s departments to identify, within the framework of the Ministry of Science’s recent directive, the Master’s-level specializations that can be offered either fully online or in hybrid format.According to the AUT Public Relations Office, Dr Somayeh Akbari made the remarks during a meeting of the University Council, where she referred to the Ministry’s recently issued directive and underlined the need for its serious implementation across the departments. She noted that the directive authorizes the delivery of fully online programs, blended programs, and new models of international collaboration, including 3+1 and 2+2 arrangements, designed to support the recruitment of international students.Dr Akbari added that the directive has been circulated to all department chairs, and departments have been asked to declare their readiness to engage in this initiative in line with the required infrastructure.Emphasizing that the University is planning extensive consultations with agents, counsellors, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and international partner universities, Dr Akbari said that the goal is to design and offer programs that can be delivered entirely online—particularly for target countries, including countries in Africa—as well as hybrid and joint programs with institutions that have the capacity for cooperation.She further stated that departments should carefully assess which disciplines and specializations, particularly at the Master’s level, are suitable for full online delivery or hybrid models, and report their findings clearly so that each department’s capacity for fully online or blended provision can be properly identified.Referring to the activities of the University’s Office of International Cooperation, Dr Akbari noted that general information about the TÜBİTAK initiative has already been shared, and that ten department members have expressed interest in participating. The initial stages of the process are now under way.The Vice Chancellor for International Affairs also addressed AUT’s international collaborations, noting that discussions have been held regarding cooperation with Pakistan and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) through the Mustafa Foundation. She said that 41 department members have expressed readiness to be sent to the institution, and that the matter is currently in the final stage of review. Financial support is also expected to be allocated to initiate joint cooperation.Regarding collaboration with China, Dr Akbari stated that serious plans are currently being pursued and that further details will be announced in the near future.