Over the past two years, more than 200 trillion rials (approximately $100 million) has been allocated by philanthropic contributors to enhance educational infrastructure across Iran, Science Minister Hossein Simaei-Sarraf announced. This funding supports the expansion and modernization of educational facilities as part of the government’s broader strategy to promote educational equity and development.
According to the minister, 4,000 new classrooms have been integrated into the national education system during this period. Additionally, the government has prioritized the "smartification" of 5,000 classrooms, aiming to incorporate advanced technologies that facilitate modern learning environments. These efforts align with the administration’s commitment to reducing illiteracy rates and fostering conditions conducive to Iran’s social and economic growth.
The third national event on future schools, held in February, further underscored the country’s focus on educational innovation. Out of more than 200 proposals submitted to the event’s secretariat, eight were selected for recognition. Hamidreza Khanmohammadi, director of the Organization for Development, Renovation, and Equipping Schools, emphasized the need for schools to be multifunctional, adaptable spaces equipped with diverse learning environments designed to meet future needs. He also highlighted the role of schools in preparing students for spiritual and societal progress.
The event showcased the integration of modern educational technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and blended learning models, aimed at fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration among students. The discussions were organized around four thematic areas: the evolving roles of teachers and students, schools as community development centers, environmentally sustainable school design, and the deployment of advanced educational tools and digital infrastructures.
Participants included a broad range of stakeholders such as technology and knowledge-based companies, consulting engineers, universities, research centers, science and technology parks, professors, students, and experts from various disciplines including technical, engineering, humanities, art, and psychology fields.
Currently, Iran’s education system serves approximately 16 million students. Under the framework of the seventh National Development Plan (2023-2027), the Ministry of Education aims to introduce AI education to two million students across elementary, junior high, and senior high schools. This initiative is designed to enhance digital literacy, equip students with critical thinking abilities, familiarize them with emerging technologies, and stimulate creativity and innovation, preparing them for future job markets and societal challenges.