According to the Public Relations Department of the University and as reported by the General Department of Public Relations of the Ministry of Science, the full text of the message from the Minister of Science, Research and Technology on the occasion of the beginning of the new academic year is as follows:
I congratulate the arrival of the new academic year and the spring of education and training, coinciding with the days of Muharram and the beginning of the Sacred Defense Week, which reminds us of the heartwarming echo of the freedom and dignity of the Master of Martyrs, Imam Hussein (PBUH), and his loyal companions, to the diligent efforts in the field of science and culture, especially to the new students. I appreciate the efforts of all scholars and pioneers in the field of knowledge and the larger family of higher education in the country, and I seek ever-increasing success and movement towards realizing the lofty human ideals that arise from divine teachings and the conduct of the righteous from the Creator of existence.
The beginning of the academic year marks a new chapter in life for those pursuing the path of wisdom; the thinkers and servants of science and culture prepare to shape a powerful and honorable future under the shadow of divine grace and their high aspirations.
Fortunately, in recent years, effective steps have been taken towards the advancement of science and the attainment of knowledge peaks due to the diligent, valuable, and lasting efforts of academicians, for which we are all grateful. However, the pace of scientific and technical developments in the world is such that any short pause increases the distance from new scientific trends. Therefore, emphasizing the need to maintain the scientific momentum of the country, the role of universities in solving issues and addressing problems, and engaging in scholarly and critical dialogue is of paramount importance. The duty of universities includes theorizing, generating and disseminating knowledge, educating committed and expert graduates, enhancing culture, and nurturing informed, responsible, and participative citizens. It is essential for academic institutions to focus on fostering ethics and spirituality, empowering students to confront difficulties, ensuring their correct understanding of the current circumstances, managing their time effectively, developing a habit of critical thinking, teamwork, maintaining professional integrity, social responsibility, and student competencies, each of which represents invaluable assets for the advancement of the country. We will responsibly bring the strategies, priorities of the Islamic Republic system, and government programs to a fruitful conclusion through the development of participation and lawful competition among academicians by supporting creativity and intellectual efforts.
It is expected that all segments of the system will support the attainment of knowledge frontiers and the establishment of a progressive, flourishing, vibrant, and hopeful society within the higher education system of the country, which possesses valuable assets. The progress and prosperity of the country are intertwined with the thoughts and actions of the youth of our land. It is evident that talent bolstered by faith will experience a swift and brilliant journey and achieve new and more impactful results.
The higher education system has so far successfully educated graduates, but given the diverse specialties, we need a mission-oriented approach, integration, and re-evaluation of higher education to strengthen the quality of student life, enhance entrepreneurship, and bolster educational and research infrastructures while producing science and technology.
While once again congratulating the arrival of the new academic year, I take this opportunity to send greetings to the pure souls of the cherished martyrs, particularly those from the large family of the country's higher education system, during the Sacred Defense Week. I wish for all the selfless warriors of jihad and martyrdom to attain dignity, and I hope that with the help of divine grace, the guidance of the Supreme Leader, which has always been a source of hope for the higher education system of the country, the support of the President and the respected government, and the valuable cooperation of the scientific and academic community, we will take more effective steps in elevating the Islamic Republic of Iran's higher education system to the exalted summit of scientific and technological authority in the region and the world, which will bring glory and national pride to dear Iran. I express my gratitude for the valuable efforts of each of my colleagues in universities and research and technology institutions and hope that they will begin the new academic year with renewed enthusiasm and vigor.
