Iran Announces Comprehensive Reforms for Educators and Virtual School Expansion
In a significant development for Iran’s education sector, senior officials have unveiled a series of new policies aimed at supporting teachers, enhancing oversight of private institutions, and expanding educational access through digital platforms.
The announcements were made by Ahmad Mahmoudzadeh during a major gathering of ministry deputies and provincial education directors in Isfahan.
Enhanced Support for Private School Teachers
A key focus of the new directives is the welfare of educators in non-public schools. Mahmoudzadeh clarified that teachers in these institutions will now receive proportional insurance and salary benefits, even if their official weekly teaching hours fall below the 30-hour threshold. This measure is designed to ensure fair compensation and address the vital role these educators play.
Strengthened Oversight of Private Institutions
Acknowledging that non-public schools have become an integral part of the national education system, officials emphasized the need for robust supervision. Mahmoudzadeh announced that provincial authorities will report on the implementation of relevant commitments by the end of the current month.
He further stated that the supervisory boards for non-public schools must evolve. Their role is set to expand from merely addressing violations to becoming proactive bodies that comprehensively monitor all matters related to these institutions.
New Virtual Schools to Launch
In a move to broaden educational access, a plan to establish official virtual schools has been approved and is scheduled for launch within the next three months. This initiative has a dual purpose: to reduce the number of students who have中断了学业 (zhōngduànle xuéyè – interrupted their studies) and to provide formal education for Iranian students residing outside the country.
Integrating Entrepreneurship into Curriculum
The reforms also extend to curriculum development. In collaboration with the Organization for Educational Research and Planning, 25% of educational content across various grade levels will be dedicated to teaching the principles of cooperation and entrepreneurship. This aims to equip students with practical skills for the future.
Optimizing Educational Resources
To improve efficiency, unused educational spaces will be leased to knowledge-based and educational service cooperatives. This policy is expected to enhance productivity and support development activities for education professionals.
The high-level meeting in Isfahan, attended by the Minister of Education and his accompanying delegation, underscores the government’s focus on modernizing the educational framework and supporting its workforce.