Promoting tech-driven governance: Vice President stresses importance of Rusta Azad prize

During the inaugural ceremony for the “Rusta Azad Technology and Governance Prize”, the Vice President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-based Ecomomy emphasized the need to foster tech-driven governance as the award’s central mission. Hossein Afshin called for the prize to inspire sustainable advancements in technology-focused governance. 

The event, held on 2 December, coincided with the second anniversary of passing of Dr. Reza Rusta Azad, Iranian academic who was the chancellor of Sharif University of Technology. 

It was attended by prominent figures, including Mohammad Mokhber, advisor to the Supreme Leader; Seyed Abbas Mousavi, President of Sharif University of Technology; and several academic leaders. 

Afshin highlighted late Rusta Azad’s contributions to advancing technology and fostering innovation at Sharif University. 

He praised the organizers for continuing his legacy, noting that “Good governance—defined as effective, transparent, and inclusive—cannot be achieved without the integration of technology.” 

The Rusta Azad Prize recognizes those who enhance governance through lawfulness, public participation, and the application of technology. 

Afshin concluded, “This award must aim to create a lasting and progressive movement in tech-driven governance, reflecting late Rusta Azad’s vision for a transformative impact on policymaking and governance.”