The story that women in Iran show the world today is one of rising above challenges. By embracing their social and cultural identity as an ornament, they have achieved remarkable success in education, science, and social fields.

Especially in education, Iranian women have made significant progress. Today, women represent a large percentage of university students, and they have successfully advanced in fields such as science and technology.

In addition, women play a major role in the medical and healthcare sectors. As doctors, researchers, and teachers, they contribute greatly to social development. Despite many challenges, they continue to move forward steadily.

The achievements of Iranian women are a strong example of determination, resilience, and the importance of education.After the 1979 Revolution, educational opportunities for women in Iran expanded greatly. Reports indicate that women make up more than 60% of university students.

According to Mehr News Agency, female literacy increased from 36% in 1976 to over 80%, and among young women, literacy has reached nearly universal levels (around 99%).

This clearly shows the high access women have to education.

Iranian women also play a significant role in science and technology. A considerable number of women are enrolled in science and engineering programs. Among STEM graduates, women represent a notable percentage (around 25%).

Women also hold approximately 47% of positions in scientific centers, demonstrating their intellectual and technical capabilities.

In Iran’s healthcare sector, women have contributed significantly to development. There has been a dramatic increase in the number of female doctors, especially gynecologists, since 1979.

They have also played a key role in reducing maternal mortality rates, highlighting their contribution to public health.

Iranian women, said to be descended from Aryan heritage, are often described as unmatched by other nations. From the time of ancient kings like Cyrus, they are associated with a civilization known for its strong human values.

The Iranian people are intelligent, and their women excel in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Women show a strong interest in science, and in Iran’s nuclear field, approximately 40% of scientists and specialists are women higher than the global average

However, Western media often portrays a very different image of Iran. By focusing on religious dress and the hijab, they depict Iranian society as backward and outdated. This representation does not reflect the true capabilities or intelligence of its people and creates a negative global perception.

For years, the world has formed opinions about Iran without fully understanding it. Iran is a country with over 7,000 years of history and is the cradle of an ancient civilization that contributed to the development of the modern world.

The Persian Empire was not just an ordinary kingdom. It contributed many principles and systems, including ideas related to human rights that still exist today. Even today, these values continue within Iranian society. The people are known for their politeness and strong hospitality.

This is not a weak or backward society. It is a resilient civilization that has survived wars, sanctions, and continuous pressures for thousands of years.

Regarding the Islamic perspective on women, the leader of the Iranian Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, once stated in a speech:

“Islam regards women as dignified human beings. Men and women share the same human essence. Before being male or female, a person is human. In terms of human nature, men and women are equal. God has granted physical differences, but both men and women play roles in human development and history though the role of women is especially significant.

Islam emphasizes respecting women and highlighting their qualities, dignity, and refinement. By refinement, I do not mean only physical beauty, but also psychological and intellectual delicacy, and the precision in their responsibilities. For example, only a mother’s gentle care can nurture a child without emotional harmthis is a unique role of women.”

Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, a new social system emerged in Iran, providing women with clearer pathways to progress and dignity. Along with advancements in education, Iranian women used their talents to rise to the highest levels in various fields

Educated women, like educated men, contribute to the well-being of society. Education enhances understanding and awareness, making women’s higher education crucial for social development. Iranian women have recognized this and continue to play a leading role in advancing civilization.

Iranian women have also gained international recognition in sports and play important roles in governance and administration. From scientific discoveries to medical advancements and participation in parliament and academia, they stand as an inspiration to women in other countries.

A lack of proper education affects not only a woman but also her children. Since much of a person’s learning happens in the first five years and since a mother is a child’s first teacher it is essential for women to be well educated. This idea was emphasized by Imam Ali, and Iranian women reflect this understanding in their journey.

A woman is not someone who should live according to the desires of men or societal pressures. She has her own identity and style. When given the freedom to grow in her own way, she shines in the most beautiful and powerful manner.

 By – Zamaa Shifani