Professor Mohammad Dastbaz Appointed as MLA College's New CEO

MLA College Welcomes New CEO, Professor Mohammad Dastbaz

On April 15, 2025, MLA College proudly announced the appointment of Professor Mohammad Dastbaz as its new Chief Executive Officer and Director, following his tenure as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Suffolk. His extensive background in higher education leadership promises to bring transformative changes to the college, leveraging his expertise in promoting academic innovation and digital learning.

Professor Dastbaz's academic focus lies in the realm of computer science, holding a PhD in the design, development, and evaluation of multimedia systems. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute for IT (The British Computer Society), demonstrating his commitment to integrating technology with education and sustainability. His previous roles include being Dean of the School of Computer Science, Information Technology, and Engineering at the University of East London, as well as serving as both Dean and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Beckett University.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Professor Dastbaz stated, "I am thrilled to join MLA College, a unique and respected institution that serves as a vital partner with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and CIFAL City of London during an exciting phase of its development. MLA College has a strong reputation for innovations in education, particularly in maritime and ecological sustainability. I am looking forward to collaborating with staff, students, and partners to further enhance this reputation and lead MLA College into its next chapter."

Alongside his academic leadership, Professor Dastbaz is also a prolific author. His writings reflect his commitment to sustainable innovations, including notable titles such as Green Information Technology: A Sustainable Approach, Industry 4.0, and Engineering for a Sustainable Future. His work serves as a resource for educators and students alike, emphasizing the importance of technology's role in addressing global sustainability challenges.

Professor John Chudley, Principal of MLA College and Chair of the UK Engineering Council, warmly welcomed Professor Dastbaz, highlighting that his appointment marks a significant milestone in MLA College's evolution. Chudley stated, "His leadership experience and academic vision will be crucial in shaping our future, particularly as we strive to achieve university status. I personally look forward to welcoming him aboard and I am eager to see the contributions he will make to our community."

Chris Gaunt OBE, Chair of the MLA College Board, shared a strategic perspective on this leadership change. "On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to welcome Professor Dastbaz to MLA College. His broad expertise in education, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with our long-term objectives. We are confident that he will guide us with clarity and purpose as we embark on this next exciting chapter."

This appointment reinforces MLA College's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence. The college continues to pursue its mission of providing high-quality, flexible education to learners worldwide, and with Professor Dastbaz at the helm, it is poised for even greater achievements in the future.

For more information and updates regarding MLA College, please visit their official website.