The Minister of Science, Research and Technology, in a message, acknowledged and expressed gratitude for the efforts of academics during the COVID-19 outbreak. According to the university's public relations office, citing the Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, the message states:
Respected Heads of Universities, Higher Education and Research Institutions
Hello and Greetings;
The challenging period of the emergence and outbreak of COVID-19, which began in March of last year coinciding with the start of the second semester of the academic year 1398-1399, has swept through our country's higher education system just like the rest of the higher education systems around the world. It poses a new experience and a complex challenge that necessitates maintaining preparedness and making prudent decisions across all university sectors. Our success in combating the pandemic of this disease, along with our commitment to preserving the cycle of university life and activities, exemplifies a fight on two fronts, which, thanks to divine grace and the assistance and determination of the academic community, has brought pride and honor to the higher education system of our country. From my perspective and that of my colleagues at the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, the valuable achievements of the past semester and the successful administration of the national entrance exam are the result of timely planning and decision-making, as well as appropriate actions and support, evident in the fruitful presence of each and every administrator, respected faculty members, and diligent staff of universities and higher education institutions.
I find it my duty to acknowledge and thank the unique and outstanding role of the esteemed faculty members and hard-working staff for their cooperation with the administrators and their alignment with the decisions made at the ministry level or at the universities during the crisis management. As a faculty member, I am aware that our esteemed colleagues, despite the difficulties posed by the disease that they and their families faced, took on new responsibilities such as producing electronic content while learning effective methods of conducting classes virtually and maintaining close communication with students to alleviate concerns for their families, have spared no effort in continuing educational activities. I hope and expect that with the measures you have taken, in the academic year 1399 - 1400, which will likely see a continued obligation to combat the pandemic preventing universities from returning to normal conditions, we will witness continued effective efforts and improvements in the process of reforms and the changed habits in universities, emphasizing the maintenance and enhancement of the quality of education and research. Please convey my appreciation and respect in the best manner you deem appropriate to the esteemed faculty members, compassionate administrators, and dedicated staff who, during these challenging conditions, have resolutely committed themselves and elevated their efforts in serving the country's higher education system. I pray to the one God for your health, honor, and continued success for all these dear individuals.
