Alireza Monadi, head of the Education and Research Commission of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, announced the goal of attracting 320,000 foreign students to universities in Iran during the seventh development plan at the third national Soraya award ceremony held this morning at the University of Science and Technology. He emphasized that this action is aimed at developing international education and scientific diplomacy.
Facilitating Conditions for Foreign Students
Monadi, appreciating the efforts made in the field of higher education and the Student Affairs Department of the Ministry of Science, referred to the obstacles and problems that have existed for years in attracting foreign students. He mentioned the need for teaching in languages other than Persian, currency issues, banking accounts, military service, and consular problems, and emphasized that these issues must be addressed.
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The head of the Education and Research Commission also referred to the importance of preserving the Persian language and said: "Persian is our national language and must be protected and promoted." He added that the necessary conditions must be created to facilitate the education of foreign students in the country.
Iran's Scientific and Cultural Background
Monadi continued by referring to the rich history of higher education in Iran and stated that our country has valuable historical experiences in the field of science and knowledge. He mentioned the Rubb' al-Khali of Tabriz and its scientific activities, adding: "In that center, foreign students were present, and the teaching of various languages and scientific and pharmaceutical activities were also emphasized."
He also referred to Iran's scientific achievements after the Islamic Revolution and said: "Iran has a significant position in the world in the field of knowledge production and has achieved successes in areas such as nuclear technology, laser, medicine, and vaccine production."
Scientific Diplomacy and the Role of Foreign Students
Monadi emphasized that scientific diplomacy can be one of the most important platforms for Iran's interaction with the world and can help strengthen the country's resilience against external pressures. He also referred to the role of foreign students as cultural ambassadors of Iran and said: "These students talk about Iran and its culture when they return to their countries."
The head of the Education and Research Commission further pointed out the necessity of facilitating the entry and exit of foreign students and said: "The Parliament emphasizes increasing the attraction of foreign students, as this can lead to the transfer of Iranian culture and create economic achievements."
Monadi concluded by stating: "The more the process of entry and exit for foreign students is facilitated, the more opportunities will be created for expanding scientific diplomacy and introducing Iranian culture." He also addressed the importance of supporting Iranian students abroad and reforming existing obstacles in this regard.
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