TEHRAN — The Mustafa Prize is seeking to expand its international role, with organizers calling on Muslim-majority countries to host future editions and strengthen scientific cooperation across the Islamic world.
Ali Akbar Salehi, chairman of the Mustafa Science and Technology Foundation, announced the proposal at a press conference here on Tuesday, confirming that the seventh edition of the biennial prize will take place in August 2027. He specifically mentioned Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Malaysia, Indonesia and Pakistan as potential hosts.
“We do not want the prize to be held only in Iran,” Salehi said.
Established to recognize major scientific and technological achievements, the Mustafa Prize has evolved beyond an awards ceremony into a platform for scientific networking. Salehi said its broader mission is to honor scientists, identify talent and connect researchers across national and institutional boundaries.
The foundation defines the “scientific community of the Islamic world” broadly, including Muslim scientists working abroad as well as non-Muslim researchers working in Islamic countries. So far, 22 scientists from countries including Iran, Türkiye, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India have received the prize.
Its programs, including the Science and Technology Exchange Program, Faculty Mobility in Islamic Countries and Young Scientists Fellowship Program, are designed to encourage collaboration and researcher mobility.
Salehi also stressed the importance of raising the social status of science and scientists. He said that recognizing successful researchers can inspire younger generations and strengthen scientific confidence.
Another key principle is “useful science”: research that not only expands knowledge but also contributes to human welfare and practical applications. The Mustafa Prize carries a $500,000 award, medal and diploma.
The foundation also wants the Islamic world to move from consuming scientific knowledge to producing it. Salehi said historical achievements in mathematics, astronomy, medicine and philosophy