Strategic and Operational Plan of University of Birjand (2025–2029)

1. Introduction

In the era of rapid scientific, technological, economic and cultural transformation, universities are no longer regarded merely as institutions of higher education, but as key drivers of sustainable development and social progress. University of Birjand, as a prominent academic and research center in eastern Iran, has developed its own Strategic and Operational Plan (2025–2029) to respond effectively to national, regional and global challenges.  The plan serves as a roadmap to strengthen the university’s role in education, research, innovation and social responsibility, with the goal of achieving academic excellence, institutional sustainability, and international visibility.

2. Vision

By 2029, University of Birjand aims to become:
A leading comprehensive university in eastern Iran, recognized nationally and regionally for excellence in education, impactful research, innovation, entrepreneurship and effective engagement with society and industry.

3. Mission

The mission of University of Birjand is to:

• Provide high-quality, student-centered education.
• Produce and disseminate knowledge through advanced research.
• Promote innovation and technology development.
• Enhance cultural, ethical, and social values.
• Contribute to regional and national sustainable development.

4. Core Values

The strategic plan is built upon the following fundamental values:

• Academic integrity and ethical responsibility
• Social justice and equal opportunity
• Innovation and creativity
• Transparency and accountability
• Respect for human dignity and diversity
• Environmental sustainability

5. Strategic Objectives

The university’s strategic framework is organized around six major pillars:

1. Educational Excellence: Improving the quality of academic programs, modernizing curricula, and promoting blended and digital learning.
2. Research and Knowledge Production: Increasing high-impact publications, developing interdisciplinary research, and strengthening research infrastructure.
3. Innovation and Technology Development: Supporting knowledge-based companies, technology parks, and commercialization of research outputs.
4. Cultural and Social Development: Strengthening cultural identity, student engagement, social responsibility, and community outreach.
5. Human Resource Development: Empowering faculty members and staff through professional development, merit-based promotion, and performance evaluation systems.
6. Institutional Governance and Infrastructure: Improving financial management, administrative systems, smart campus development, and digital transformation.

6. Priority Strategic Programs

Key priority programs defined in this plan include:

• Expansion of postgraduate and doctoral programs.
• Internationalization of education and research.
• Strengthening industry–university collaboration.
• Development of digital and smart education systems.
• Establishment of interdisciplinary research centers.
• Enhancement of student support services and welfare.

7. Performance Indicators

The plan defines measurable indicators to monitor progress, including:

• Student-to-faculty ratio improvement

• Number and quality of indexed publications (JCR, Scopus, ISC)

• External research grants and funded projects

• Graduate employability rate
• International student enrollment
• Industry-funded research projects

8. Implementation and Evaluation

This strategic plan is designed to be implemented through annual operational plans at:

• Central university level
• Faculties and departments
• Administrative and support units

A continuous monitoring and evaluation system will be used, including periodic performance reviews, benchmarking, and corrective actions to ensure alignment with strategic goals.