Iran expands AI education in universities, beyond

Iranian Vice President for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy, Hossein Afshin, said Iran is advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) education initiatives, targeting universities and the broader public.

Afshin underscored the critical role of skilled human resources in driving national progress in AI, noting that the current administration has been integrated AI into university curricula, with mandatory courses introduced for all students, regardless of their fields of study.

Recorded AI lectures from university courses, held between September and December 2024, are now being uploaded to online platforms for free nationwide access, the vice president said.

Afshin said the government is also incentivizing professors to develop AI and quantum technology syllabi by offering funds.

Additionally, global AI education models, including those from Russia and China, have been adapted to suit Iran’s cultural and educational context, he explained.

Afshin highlighted the importance of foundational AI education, stressing that innovation depends on strengthening educational basics.

He also advocated for extending AI training to parents, enabling them to support their children’s learning processes.

The initiative spans three levels: general public education, student-focused training, and advanced research.

Afshin pointed out that last year, over 40 AI research contracts were signed aiming to position Iran as a competitive player in the global technology landscape.