Introduction

What's AIESEC?

AIESEC is a global, non-political, not-for-profit organisation run by students and recent graduates of institutions of higher education. Being present in over 800 universities in 95 countries, AIESEC is the world's largest student organization. Its members are interested in world issues, leadership and management. In addition to providing over 5,000 leadership positions and delivering over 350 conferences, AIESEC also runs an exchange program that gives over 3,500 students and recent graduates the opportunity to live and work in another country. AIESEC encourages people to learn from different ways of life and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion or any other categories.

Why do we plan an extension to Iran?

Iran´s high academic standards and its young and dynamic population would greatly enrich our network. Being influenced by lopsided reportings people tend to forget about Iran's potential.

With 70% younger than 30 years Iran has one of the youngest populations in the world. It also has one of the most educated populations in the middle east. Iran has a literacy rate of more than 80%.

A variety of local projects, 4,000 opportunities to work abroad and 350 conferences per year could give Iranian students the chance to transform their theoretical knowledge into practical skills. On the other hand, AIESEC can provide Iranian companies with access to high-potential young talents from around the world.

Which are our intentions during this journey?

Having made different appointments, we plan to develop a network of individuals, companies and organisations who support our idea and who can help establishing AIESEC in Iran. Of course, we give top priority to our meetings with the universities' representatives. It is our aim to convince them of our positive intentions – and to make clear that AIESEC wants to contribute to the enhancements of Iran's economy and society.

As a team we will be present in Iran from july 30th to august 24th. Fortunately, our project manager Abusar will stay in Iran until september 30th, so that there's still a possibility to keep appointments and stay in touch with our contacts in Teheran. Our next trip is planned for spring 2007 – but let's see what the first one brings!