Ayatollah Khamenei the Leader of the Islamic Revolution met today with a large group of scientific elites and academics. Speaking at the meeting, His Eminence described scientific progress as a vital need for the country and added: "This scientific progress must be based on indigenous generation of knowledge and accompanied by self-confidence and hope."Ayatollah Khamenei the Leader of the Islamic Revolution met today with a large group of scientific elites and academics. Speaking at the meeting, His Eminence described scientific progress as a vital need for the country and added: "This scientific progress must be based on indigenous generation of knowledge and accompanied by self-confidence and hope."
He said that holding discussions with scientific elites of the country is a symbolic act aimed at raising their status among government officials and the people. "We need to respect our elites because it provides the best incentive to boost knowledge inside the country."
The Leader of the Islamic Revolution said informing the public about the views of elites and academics is another purpose of this meeting, further adding: "The expert views of our academics will definitely help the administration, Majlis, Expediency Council, and executive bodies to make appropriate decisions."
Ayatollah Khamenei also stressed that the acquisition of knowledge and making use of the scientific advancements of other countries is one of the requirements of scientific progress. "Acquisition of knowledge is not the same as scientific dependence and lack of innovation. On the contrary, scientific progress must be achieved with a focus on our Iranian and Islamic culture, national needs, and indigenous generation of knowledge," he noted.
His Eminence emphasized the need for needs assessment and specification of scientific priorities in educational plans and added: "Considering the limited resources and the great number of needs, we must not invest in low priority research projects."
The Leader said the promotion of research among university students is another requirement for scientific progress, further reiterating: "Abolition of rote learning and promotion of research and critical thinking among the students are important points that have to be considered regarding educational reforms in the country."
Elsewhere in his speech, His Eminence stated that the country is in need of experienced as well as young and energetic academics. He stressed that young academics must not be prevented from occupying academic positions held by experienced professors.
At the end of this meeting, the participants said their evening and sunset prayers led by the Leader.