August 8 marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Mahmoud Sarmadi, a journalist of the Islamic Republic News Agency who was killed in an attack by the terrorist group Taliban on the Iranian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan in 1998, a day now commemorated as Journalist Day . In observance of this day, officials from Qom University of Technology visited the offices of several news agencies to honor journalists and media personnel.
According to the university's public relations: Dr. Rezaei Noor, the university president, in a meeting with several journalists, emphasized that journalists, without any claims, work toward the goals and ideals of the Islamic Revolution and strive to create unity and hope in society, stating: This heartfelt meeting is to thank journalists who continually step forward to solve the people's problems and do not cease their efforts and pursuits despite the challenges and adversities they encounter.
Dr. Karimi, the university's deputy for student affairs, also in his meetings with various news agencies, described journalists as tireless activists in the media and news arena, and the best link between the people and authorities, stating: The value of a journalist's work should not be overlooked in society because by raising awareness, addressing the intractable knots of issues, and providing constructive criticism, journalists invigorate hope and the quest for justice in the community.
Mr. Rezaei Pouya, the manager of the university's public relations, in his meeting with another group of journalists, praised the significant contributions of journalists, stating that their impact in combating recent media onslaughts that target national and religious values is vital and commendable, and said: The status of journalists is commendable in that despite hardships and the repercussions of their revelations, they advance towards clarifying the truths for society even at the cost of their lives. Such sacrifices cannot be measured by any material criteria, and certainly, the deeds of journalists and the blood of media personnel have a special and esteemed place in the eyes of God.
In these meetings, journalists expressed their satisfaction with the university's initiative, considering this effort a source of encouragement and thanked the university officials for their appreciation. Notably, journalists shared their memories and the work-related dangers they face, which, despite the numerous hardships endured, reflect their deep love and commitment to continue their work in this field.
Some journalists, while criticizing the financial conditions affecting this profession, pointed out the lack of principles and regulations regarding job security, insurance, lack of financial support from the private sector, and absence of other recreational benefits as factors contributing to the demoralization and mental pressure on this unassuming group, calling for comprehensive support from the government and officials.
Another journalist, expressing his grievances, said: "Unfortunately, we journalists are only seen on this day. Officials come, listen to our struggles and problems, take photos with us, and then leave, yet no actual measures are taken to resolve the issues."
The university's public relations, while apologizing to other journalists and the hardworking individuals in the field who, due to time constraints and the inability to hold a centralized meeting amid the pandemic, could not receive a personal audience, appreciates the esteemed status of journalists and wishes all these dear journalists health and safety, and strives to acknowledge the unwavering efforts of all these esteemed individuals at the earliest opportunity in person.
