Iran launches free AI education program for 2mn. students and 200k teachers

Iran’s Vice President for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy Hossein Afshin has announced the launch of a nationwide free artificial intelligence (AI) education initiative for two million students and 200,000 teachers across Iran.

Speaking at a ceremony honoring global Olympiad medalists, Afshin stressed that this program aims to reduce the knowledge gap among students and educators while enhancing the country’s human capital. According to the vice president, despite earlier delays caused by national conditions, necessary AI infrastructure—including AI platforms and assistants—is now being actively developed and deployed.
Afshin also referred to Iran’s improved global ranking in scientific production, rising from 33rd to 30th place according to the Nature Index.
He said the progress is due to focused efforts on research quality.
The free AI training is designed for students aged 6 to 16, presented in an engaging, game-like format to introduce fundamental concepts. Meanwhile, teacher training is running concurrently to equip educators with necessary skills.
The vice president noted that integrating AI into the official curriculum will initially be optional, allowing gradual familiarization for both students and teachers.
The program is conducted in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Communications, with full financial support provided by the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology.