Minister of Education Unveils Farhangian University’s New Roadmap

From Curriculum Transformation to Strengthening Teacher Development and Skills Training

Minister of Education Alireza Kazemi, emphasizing that Farhangian University is the heart of the country’s education and training system, identified curriculum transformation, quality assurance in education, strengthening teaching skills, enhancing the university’s educational and developmental role, and the selection of student teachers and faculty members as among the university’s key priorities. He stated that transforming Farhangian University would pave the way for transformation in the education system and shape the country’s future.

According to the Public Relations Office of Farhangian University, citing the Information and Public Relations Center of the Ministry of Education, Alireza Kazemi made the remarks on Sunday, July 19, at the second gathering of provincial presidents of Farhangian University. Referring to the country’s circumstances and the need to preserve national cohesion, he expressed appreciation for the extensive and effective participation of Farhangian University in national and revolutionary programs, noting that the university had demonstrated an unprecedented and commendable presence in recent days.

Referring to preparations for the timely start of the academic year, the Minister of Education emphasized that all efforts by the Ministry are focused on ensuring that the academic year for schools and Farhangian University begins immediately. He noted that any interruption in the university’s activities would disrupt the process of teacher preparation and the provision of human resources for the education system.

Kazemi also announced the integration of the national university entrance examination and the Farhangian University admission process, stating that, pursuant to a resolution of the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution, the admission process for student teachers has been brought forward by approximately one month. He called on universities to strengthen competency assessment committees and interview teams while maintaining the quality of the selection process.

The Minister of Education described fundamental transformation of the curriculum as the most important mission of the new management of Farhangian University. He added that all course outlines, educational content, teaching methods, assessment procedures and educational structures at Farhangian University must be reviewed through a new approach so that they can effectively fulfill the university’s primary mission of preparing teachers who meet the desired national standards.

He further emphasized the need to establish an education quality assurance system, stating that Farhangian University should develop precise quality indicators, assess the current situation and formulate operational plans for continuous improvement. Quality, he noted, cannot be measured solely through grade point averages and academic scores; teaching competencies, educational and developmental activities, and social engagement must also be incorporated into assessments.

Kazemi identified three key features distinguishing Farhangian University from other universities: residential university life, an educational and developmental approach, and school-centeredness. He stated that dormitories should be transformed into environments for personal development; cultural growth, social activities and skills training, and those student teachers should acquire not only specialized knowledge but also strong religious, national and revolutionary identities.

Stating “a good teacher is not developed through knowledge alone,” Kazemi emphasized strengthening practicum programs and professional skills training. He said Farhangian University should design a comprehensive system for developing teaching competencies and establishing effective connections between student teachers and schools.

He also considered reforming Farhangian University’s assessment system essential, adding that student teachers should not be evaluated solely based on academic examinations. Cultural and educational activities, professional competencies, familiarity with the Quran and commitment to prayer should also be reflected in the assessment process.

The Minister of Education emphasized the important role of Farhangian University faculty members, stating that a high-caliber professor prepares a high-caliber teacher. Therefore, the recruitment, continuous training, professional development and enhancement of the status of faculty members should be pursued with particular attention.

He also stressed the importance of rigor in the selection of student teachers, stating that the future of the country’s children will be entrusted to teachers and, therefore, established standards for assessing qualifications and selecting teachers must never be compromised.

Kazemi called on the provincial presidents of Farhangian University to channel the university’s collective energy toward resolving its challenges through synergy, interaction and maximum use of provincial capacities, while avoiding disputes and peripheral issues.

At the conclusion of the gathering, three specialized posters produced by Farhangian University were also unveiled.