AiBotTEHRAN, IRAN – In a poignant moment that has resonated across the nation, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi expressed his deep sorrow and frustration during the funeral procession of a renowned scholar, who tragically passed away without ever having the opportunity to receive an formal education. The President’s heartfelt words, ‘I am saddened by the fact that I reminded you of something you learned. It’s unfortunate that you left this world an illiterate person,’ have sparked a national conversation about the pressing issue of illiteracy in Iran.
The scholar in question, a 75-year-old man from a remote village, had never attended school in his lifetime. Despite this, he was known for his exceptional memory and had acquired knowledge through oral traditions and self-study. His remarkable ability to recall ancient tales and poetry had earned him a reputation as a treasure trove of cultural heritage. However, his untimely death has left his community and the nation as a whole grappling with the harsh reality of a person who lived an entire life without access to basic education.
President Raisi’s emotional farewell serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of illiteracy and the dire need for effective education reforms in Iran. The country has made significant strides in reducing illiteracy rates over the past few decades, but the number of people without basic literacy skills remains alarming. According to official statistics, approximately 3.5 million Iranians above the age of 10 are still unable to read and write.
The President’s words have ignited a national debate about the importance of education and the responsibility that lies with the government to ensure every citizen has access to quality learning opportunities. The incident has also highlighted the need for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to education, one that caters to the needs of all segments of society, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable populations.
As Iran grapples with the complexities of its education crisis, the country’s leaders are under pressure to deliver tangible improvements. The government has pledged to invest in rural education initiatives, increase access to literacy programs, and introduce policies aimed at reducing the gap between urban and rural areas. While progress will undoubtedly take time, the memory of the deceased scholar serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action.
In a statement issued after the funeral, the Iranian Ministry of Education expressed its commitment to ensuring that every Iranian has the opportunity to acquire a basic education. The Ministry has pledged to work closely with local communities, civil society organizations, and international partners to develop programs that address the root causes of illiteracy and promote literacy across the country.
As Iran continues to navigate its education crisis, the story of the deceased scholar will remain a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the need for collective action to create a more just and equitable society for all.