On the morning of November 18, 2024, the specialized workshop titled “Innovation and Productivity Through AI Capabilities in the Digital Era” was held at Shirin Asal University of Applied Science and Technology, located in the Shahid Salimi Industrial Zone. The event saw the active participation of managers, industry professionals, and experts, and was organized through the collaborative efforts of Azarshahr County’s Governor’s Office, East Azerbaijan Industrial Towns Company, the Board of Directors of Shahid Salimi Industrial Zone, Shirin Asal University of Applied Science and Technology, and the Public Relations Association of East Azerbaijan. The workshop hosted prominent figures from the fields of industry and technology.

Emphasis on AI’s Role in Regional and Industrial Development

In his opening remarks, Shamsali Mahmoudian, Governor of Azarshahr County, highlighted the significance of the event in enhancing regional capabilities. He referred to statements made by Dr. Bahram Sarmast, the esteemed governor of East Azerbaijan, during his recent visit to Shahid Salimi Industrial Zone, stating:
“The governor emphasized the close connection between academia and industry and the need to strengthen this bond. He underscored the importance of training industry employees and empowering them. We are pleased to witness this specialized event being organized promptly, reflecting the practical implementation of these policies and a significant step towards the industrial development of the region.”

Mahmoudian expressed his gratitude to all organizations and institutions involved in organizing the event and stressed the importance of continuing such programs to enhance the knowledge and skills of the workforce and improve productivity in regional industries.

Sajjad Matlabi, Deputy Director of Planning at East Azerbaijan Industrial Towns Company, also addressed the audience, emphasizing the critical role of AI in improving productivity and advancing industrial development. He stated that artificial intelligence serves as a strategic tool for industry growth and can revolutionize production and management processes.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Ali Borhanizadeh, CEO of Shirin Asal Holding, highlighted the importance of modern technologies in driving innovation. He referred to AI as one of the most pivotal tools for shaping the future of Iran’s industry and stressed the necessity of transitioning toward digitalized processes.

Opening Remarks by the University President

The workshop commenced with a brief opening speech by Maryam Khosh-Manzar, President of Shirin Asal University of Applied Science and Technology. She emphasized the importance of aligning science with industry and remarked:
“This workshop is a valuable step toward enhancing the specialized knowledge of regional managers and industry professionals. Shirin Asal University is committed to providing a conducive environment for skill development and the adoption of modern technologies.”

Keynote Speech and Training by Ebrahim Molaei

One of the event’s highlights was a keynote speech and training session delivered by Ebrahim Molaei, President of the Public Relations Association of East Azerbaijan and a distinguished researcher in artificial intelligence. Molaei explored the role of AI in various organizational functions and its impact on productivity and innovation. By presenting practical examples of AI implementation in diverse business contexts, he created an interactive and dynamic workshop atmosphere, which was met with an enthusiastic response from the audience.

Introduction of Iran’s First Generative Chatbot

In the concluding segment, Amirhossein Mehrdoust, developer of Fibonacci—the first Iranian generative AI chatbot—introduced the chatbot’s advanced features in content creation, data analysis, and intelligent interaction.

Certified Participation

The workshop, warmly received by executive managers, public relations professionals, administrative leaders, HR and legal managers, training directors, and industrial experts, provided a valuable platform for learning and experience exchange. At the end of the event, participants were awarded official certificates issued by Shirin Asal University of Applied Science and Technology.