KARAJ, Iran, 1 June 2017 – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are implementing a joint programme to help the Islamic Republic of Iran to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The programme focuses on SDG4, “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all,” and SDG9, “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”.  

Within the framework of a UNESCO project implemented in Iran and Turkmenistan, UNIDO’s Investment Learning Centre, operated by the Organization’s Department of Trade, Investment and Innovation, has developed a programme to advance practical skills in preparing pre-investment studies and financial appraisal of investment proposals.

A workshop held at Iran’s Technical and Vocational Training Organization (TVTO) presented UNIDO methodologies and tools for project formulation and appraisal, including its Computer Model for Feasibility Analysis and Reporting (COMFAR) software.

TVTO selected 13 senior entrepreneurship trainers from its network in 12 provinces of the country, who took two weeks of training. Participants acknowledged that the course provided them with the knowledge and software to better assist local entrepreneurs, especially women and vulnerable groups, to contribute to achieving the SDGs. 

Bernardo Calzadilla-Sarmiento, Director of UNIDO’s Department of Trade, Investment and Innovation, emphasized the importance of mobilizing investment for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as innovation. He also commended the cooperation with UNESCO, saying: “UNIDO is dedicated to further jointly identify and exploit synergies with UNESCO and others United Nations organizations and agencies in support of the implementation of the SDGs in different parts of the world.”

Quality entrepreneurial education, as well as skills development for entrepreneurship trainers in investment project formulation and financial appraisal, are essential for formulating bankable proposals which, in turn, are one of the key determinants of investment mobilization for inclusive and sustainable industrial development and innovation, added Calzadilla-Sarmiento. 

 

For more information contact:

UNIDO Department of Trade, Investment and Innovation

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