Iran Approves Significant Pay Rise for Teachers in New Academic Year
In a significant move to support the education sector, the Iranian government has confirmed a substantial salary increase for teachers, effective at the start of the new academic year. The raise, part of the ongoing teacher ranking plan, underscores a continued policy focus on enhancing the professional and financial standing of educators.
A Tiered Increase Structure
The new salary table, based on an updated ranking system, outlines the following approximate increases for the Persian year 1404:
- Rank 1: An increase of approximately 2,940,000 Tomans.
- Rank 2: An increase of approximately 3,610,000 Tomans.
- Rank 3: An increase of approximately 4,290,000 Tomans.
According to reports, these increments are a direct result of state policies designed to bolster support for teachers and elevate their work motivation.
Overhauling the Ranking System
The Ministry of Education has taken a major step by drafting a new bylaw for the teacher ranking system. This comprehensive document, slated for finalization before the start of the academic year in Mehr 1404, will be implemented from 20 Mehr for both new teachers and the promotion of existing staff.
Ali Farhadi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, announced that the new bylaw was developed with a focus on promotion and rectifying shortcomings of the previous system. Key features include:
- Automatic Entry-Level Rank: Newly hired teachers with a bachelor’s degree will automatically receive the “Morabbi Amoozeshyar” (Educational Instructor) rank.
- Streamlined Promotions: Teachers will become eligible for promotion after four years of service in rural areas or five years in urban areas, without the initial need to submit extensive documentation.
- Quality-Centric Approach: Shifting from a previous emphasis on formal credentials, the new system prioritizes the quality of a teacher’s performance in the classroom.
- Rank Demotion: The bylaw introduces the possibility of a rank demotion if a teacher fails to meet required standards, a decision which is reported to be non-appealable.
A Deliberative Process
Mr. Farhadi detailed that the bylaw was reviewed by a working group comprising the Ministry of Education, the Administrative and Employment Affairs Organization, and the Planning and Budget Organization. After addressing any issues, it will be finalized by the government’s Commission for Management and Human Capital before being presented to the Council of Ministers for approval.
An evaluation board, including educational deputies from the central and provincial departments, will assess teacher performance with a strictly education-oriented approach.
This revised ranking system, by simplifying processes and emphasizing quality, is positioned to increase teacher motivation and foster a more professional educational environment. Its implementation marks a pivotal development in the ongoing efforts to improve the livelihood and professional status of Iran’s teaching community.