President Pezeshkian Urges Ministerial Engagement with Universities, Highlights Dialogue as Key to Societal Dynamism
Tehran, Iran – During the 155th cabinet meeting held in late February 2026, President Masoud Pezeshkian underscored the critical importance of direct engagement between government ministers and the academic community, asserting that societal vitality is expressed through dialogue and the articulation of concerns. The session, chaired by President Pezeshkian, reviewed various national reports and executive strategies.
Cabinet Deliberations on National Issues
The cabinet meeting commenced with a series of reports from key ministers on the nation’s diverse political, economic, scientific, and social landscapes.
The Minister of Roads and Urban Development presented an update on the 16th joint meeting between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, detailing the progress of negotiations and interactions and emphasizing a positive trajectory in bilateral relations.
Subsequently, the Governor of the Central Bank provided an overview of the inflation status for the preceding month and elaborated on the ongoing implementation of justice-oriented economic reforms, including a review of household consumption patterns facilitated by commodity coupons.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs briefed the cabinet on the latest developments and decisions concerning negotiations with the United States, outlining the various dimensions of the process.
Further reports included an assessment from the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts on the state of the national tourism industry, highlighting existing challenges and the necessity for additional measures to overcome them. The Head of the Environmental Protection Organization also presented on the “green government” initiatives undertaken by the 14th administration, discussing future plans and drawing lessons from international experiences.
Addressing University Dynamics
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to the report by the Minister of Science, Research, and Technology, who provided an update on the current situation within the nation’s universities, including specific incidents in a limited number of institutions, and examined the overall educational conditions and general atmosphere across higher education centers.
Responding to this report, President Pezeshkian emphasized that “the fate of all universities and hundreds of thousands of students should not be influenced by the actions of a limited number.” He affirmed that the majority of students are actively engaged in their studies and intellectual pursuits.
Championing Dialogue and Societal Vitality
President Pezeshkian further articulated his perspective on student expressions, stating that “if some have protests, they can express their protest.” He profoundly declared that “protest is a sign of a living society,” equating it with “social dynamism and vitality.”
To foster this dynamism, the President announced the government’s readiness for direct engagement, stating, “We are ready to be present in universities and directly converse with students.” He further directed all ministers to “also be present in universities and strengthen the space for dialogue.”
Concluding his remarks, President Pezeshkian reiterated his vision for a responsive government: “A society in which voices are raised, demands are made, and there is sensitivity to issues, is a living society enjoying active social life. It is our duty to listen to these voices, to act towards resolving issues and problems, and to pave the way for dialogue and interaction.” This statement underscored the administration’s commitment to proactive engagement and problem-solving through open communication.
