In a joint meeting between the University of Art and Islamic Thought and the Cultural and Social Commission of the Islamic City Council of Qom on Saturday, Aban 20, 1404 (solar Hijri calendar), strategies for expanding cooperation in cultural and artistic fields were discussed. The head of the Cultural Commission of the Council proposed signing an official memorandum of cooperation between the two institutions.
Session Introduction and Objectives
The joint meeting of the University of Art and Islamic Thought with the Cultural and Social Commission of the Islamic City Council of Qom was held at the Qom City Council building with the aim of exploring areas of cultural, artistic, and social cooperation between the university and the city administration.
At this meeting, the university was represented by Dr. Mehdi Hamidi Parsa (University President), Dr. Neda Hamidi Parsa (Vice President for Cultural and Social Affairs), Mohammad Hossein Mousavi (Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs), and Sadegh Emami (Public Relations Manager).
From the City Council side, Dr. Malaei (Chairman of the Cultural and Social Commission), Ms. Niyazmand (Council Member), Mr. Morteza Estegamat (Chairman of the Urban Services and Pilgrims Affairs Commission), and a number of cultural managers and advisors from Qom Municipality participated.
Introduction of the University and its Artistic Capabilities
At the beginning of the meeting, Dr. Mehdi Hamidi Parsa, while introducing the university and its active fields of study, stated:
“The University of Art and Islamic Thought commenced its activities in 2013 (1392 Solar Hijri) and currently, with 13 undergraduate programs and 16 graduate programs, plays a role in nurturing committed artists faithful to the values of the Islamic Revolution.
Art is the influential language of society, and the university is prepared to cooperate in enhancing the visual beauty and cultural identity of the city of Qom.”
Proposal to sign a cooperation memorandum of understanding
Subsequently, Dr. Malaei, Chairman of the Cultural and Social Commission of Qom City Council, appreciating the activities of the University of Art and Islamic Thought, stated:
“Qom is a city with unique cultural, historical, and international capacities. Given the presence of various nationalities and numerous pilgrims, we require the production of identity-forming artistic works.”
He added:
“It is proposed that an official memorandum of understanding be signed between the Cultural and Social Commission of the City Council and the University of Art and Islamic Thought so that cooperation in the fields of education, production of artistic works, urban beautification, and utilization of the university elite capacities can be organized and sustained.”
The role of art in enhancing urban spaces
In another part of the meeting, members of both institutions emphasized the importance of art’s role in improving the cultural and social environment of Qom.
In this context, topics such as designing urban cultural billboards, utilizing student artworks for urban beautification, providing art education for the younger generation, and producing cultural content appropriate for religious and national occasions were discussed.
Summary and final decision
At the end of the meeting, it was decided:
- A draft of the joint cooperation memorandum between the university and the Cultural and Social Commission of Qom City Council will be prepared.
- A joint working group consisting of representatives from the university and the council will be formed to develop executive and operational programs.
