Iran Ministry of Education regulatory updates

The Iranian Ministry of Education has addressed various administrative and regulatory concerns regarding the national school system. Initially, officials denied reports of textbook shortages, stating that distribution is managed through school orders and that any delays are likely due to bulk ordering by administrators. Regarding curriculum concerns, the Ministry maintained that content is continuously updated and noted that certain new materials, such as ‘From Me to God’, remain optional.

Subsequently, the Ministry issued warnings concerning the legality of foreign online schools operating within the country. Officials stated that these institutions lack official permits and regulatory oversight. Because students in these programs are not registered in national systems like ‘Sanad’ or ‘Sida’, their diplomas are not recognized by the Commission for the Evaluation of Foreign Academic Credentials, creating barriers for those seeking higher education.

Minister of Education Alireza Kazemi recently reported that approximately 164 million textbooks were printed and distributed, claiming 99 percent were delivered before the academic year began despite challenges with paper imports and wartime conditions. Kazemi attributed reported shortages to student transfers, registration delays, and changes in fields of study. He also noted that educational content is being revised to reflect recent wartime events, such as the ‘12-day war’ and the ‘Ramadan war’, through subjects like social studies and contemporary history. Additionally, the Minister identified staffing as a major challenge, noting that recruitment exams were not held this year. In Lorestan province, officials are implementing support programs, including the planned distribution of milk and biscuits to schools.