Standardization: A Prerequisite for Marine-Based Development

 | Last update: 2025/09/28 | 


 
The President of Amirkabir University of Technology (AUT) has emphasized the crucial role of standardization in advancing the maritime industry. In this regard, the Office for the Development of Marine Standards has been jointly established by Amirkabir University of Technology and the Marine Industries Organization. The purpose of this office is to promote a culture of standardization within the academic community, enhance understanding of existing standards, and align national practices with international benchmarks to foster technological growth and innovation.
According to AUT’s Public Relations Office, Dr. Abbas Sorush, President of Amirkabir University of Technology, made these remarks during the coordination meeting for the First Conference on Standards and Standardization in the Maritime Industry. He stated:
“In 1985–1986, Amirkabir University of Technology decided to establish a branch in Bandar Abbas. At that time, due to the war, there was a prevailing tendency toward ‘sea avoidance,’ as many infrastructures were relocated inland to mitigate potential risks.”
Dr. Sorush explained that during that period, the late Dr. Salimi and Dr. Nourpanah, then President and Vice President of the university, demonstrated strategic foresight in founding the Bandar Abbas branch.
He added: “In recent years, the discourse has shifted from ‘sea avoidance’ to ‘marine-based development,’ and AUT has been proud to lead this national transition. One of our university’s defining strengths is its pioneering role in emerging academic fields—such as establishing Iran’s first Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, first Faculty of Textile Engineering, and first independent Faculty of Petroleum Engineering.”
Dr. Sorush also noted that, following the creation of the Bandar Abbas branch, similar initiatives led to the establishment of the Faculty of Marine Engineering in Tehran.
“Today, our activities continue both in Tehran and Bandar Abbas, supported by a dedicated team of nearly 20 faculty and staff members. It is a source of great pride for us to contribute to the nation, its people, and its youth,” he said.
The AUT President stressed that standardization is a fundamental pillar of marine-based development:
“If we are to advance marine-oriented growth in all sectors, standardization must be prioritized across the board—from shipbuilding and port operations to transportation, coastal structures, and emerging technologies such as offshore wind turbines.”
He emphasized the importance of continuity and consistency in hosting such academic events:
“The first conference has successfully been held, and it is vital to plan for subsequent editions. Sustained and organized efforts are key to progress in this area.”
Dr. Sorush further highlighted that the very concept of standardization was originally designed to ensure consistent production quality, yet:
“In Iran, we have often been consumers rather than producers of standards, leaving us underdeveloped in the field of standardization science.”
He pointed out that although the country has vast potential, there remains a significant gap between capacity and realization:
“During my visits to knowledge-based companies, I was encouraged to see that their workforces are composed entirely of young professionals. We do not lack talent; rather, we need effective mechanisms to channel these capabilities—especially in the domain of standards and quality.”
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Sorush underlined the strategic importance of the maritime sector:
“Given the sea’s critical role in national development and its transnational nature, the establishment and implementation of standards in the maritime industry are of exceptional importance.”
The First Conference on Standards and Standardization in the Maritime Industries will be held on December 2–3 (12–13 Azar) at Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran.

 



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