President of the University of Kashan Emphasizes the Pivotal Role of Universities in Passive Defense

On the occasion of Passive Defense Week, Dr. Behzad Soltani, President of the University of Kashan, underscored the strategic importance and critical position of this concept within the academic framework. Emphasizing the recommendations of the Supreme Leader regarding passive defense and relevant national directives, he highlighted the essential role of universities in enhancing security, resilience, and preparedness against incidents and crises, describing the contribution of faculty members as exceptional and irreplaceable.

Dr. Soltani also announced the full readiness of the University of Kashan to engage in comprehensive cooperation with urban organizations and institutions, particularly in the fields of research and studies related to passive defense.

He further reported the establishment of a new term for the “University Passive Defense Council,” immediately following the issuance of the Ministry of Science’s directive. According to him, the council’s meetings are held regularly and systematically to follow up on related matters.

Dr. Soltani referred to the university’s special programs during Passive Defense Week, which include environmental awareness campaigns, promotional activities, and a faculty and staff workshop titled “Introduction to Modern Threats,” held with the participation of Dr. Jafari, Head of the Provincial Passive Defense Organization. Additionally, special sessions of the university’s Passive Defense Committee were convened to address specific issues in this field.

He then outlined the committee’s key initiatives as follows:

1. Prioritization and implementation of a comprehensive program to enhance laboratory safety:
   This initiative focuses on “continuous hazard monitoring, renovation of safety systems, and establishment of risk management protocols.” Central to this plan is the relocation of the chemical storage facility, prioritizing the adoption of modern safety standards, ventilation systems, and fire detection and suppression mechanisms. The first phase involves relocating the storage area outside the faculty building, while the second phase includes planning for the construction of a new and compliant facility. Furthermore, health monitoring of chemistry students is among the approved programs, to be implemented soon by the Counseling Center and the Faculty of Chemistry.

2. Strengthening of cyber and physical infrastructure of the university’s data center:
   This effort is focused on “vulnerability assessment, enhancement of cyber defense systems, and establishment of secure access levels.” Implemented measures include hardware and software upgrades of protective infrastructures, periodic backup of critical data, and installation of advanced physical security systems at the university’s computer center.

3. Identification and organization of crisis shelters in line with emergency management standards:
   In this regard, “identification, technical assessment, and equipping of safe and resilient spaces” are underway to establish “multi-purpose emergency shelters.” These facilities are being designed and prepared to provide essential services during natural or unforeseen crises, with careful consideration of accessibility, structural integrity, and provision of basic necessities.

It is noteworthy that the formation of Passive Defense Committees in universities, including the University of Kashan, was mandated by the Ministry of Science in September of this year. The aim is to strengthen systematic coordination between the Ministry’s central committee and institutional counterparts, ensuring preparedness against potential threats and emergency situations.