TEHRAN – In a university speech on Wednesday, President Ebrahim Raisi expressed his gratitude to students for thwarting the threats posed by foreign seditionary forces, saying the Iranian youth “have disappointed the enemy.”

Raisi delivered a traditional Student Day speech at Shahid Beheshti University, celebrating students as pivotal contributors to societal progress. He lauded students for their forward-thinking approach and proactive readiness to address pressing societal needs. 

“Scientific prowess,” he asserted, “serves as the driving force propelling the nation forward on the paths of progress and development.”

He highlighted how educated forces, scientists, and committed individuals, equipped with both expertise and dedication, can catalyze transformative advancements across various fields. 

Affirming the potent blend of political engagement and activism among students, President Raisi envisioned academic institutions as dynamic hubs fostering virtue, ethics, literature, human dignity, respect for others, and an unwavering commitment to law enforcement and justice. The President reiterated the inherently anti-authoritarian and anti-colonial stance of the student movement, portraying it as a robust counterforce against both internal oppression and foreign domination.

Political nature of universities

Raisi addressed the perception that university is inherently political, emphasizing that while it holds a political stance, it refrains from direct involvement in partisan politics. According to him, the essence of being political lies in understanding and addressing societal needs, rather than transforming the university into a platform for political parties or students as political activists. He asserted that such a transformation does not align with the university’s intended political nature.

Iran’s global success

Raisi also addressed the enemy’s pursuit of isolating Iran globally and encouraged observation of global and regional conditions. 

“Iran,” he proudly declared, “shines in various political, economic, and social arenas regionally and globally. Many world leaders recognize Iran as a major power and express their intent to address regional issues in collaboration with Iran.”

“Resistance is key to defeat enemies”

Emphasizing that resistance has disrupted the multifaceted calculations of enemies, President Raisi quoted the Leader of the Islamic Revolution’s assertion that “the enemy wanted but failed to isolate Iran.” He affirmed Iran’s success in this regard, highlighting the resilience and strategic brilliance displayed in the face of adversity.

Iran in way of progress

Elsewhere in his remarks, Raisi highlighted the Iranian people’s steadfast pursuit of their goals, witnessing substantial progress across various sectors. He refuted claims of an impending economic collapse, pointing to ongoing progress in the country’s economic spheres. The President expressed confidence that economic progress, facilitated by strategic planning, will continue unabated, echoing the unwavering will of the Iranian people. He closed by reiterating faith in the Leader of the Islamic Revolution’s words, emphasizing that obstacles posed by enemies would not impede the nation’s forward momentum, ensuring that Iran remains resilient and optimistic.

The official also affirmed the Iranian government’s unwavering determination to tackle any kind of corruption that threatens the nation’s integrity.

Before being elected as president, Ebrahim Raisi had assumed the post of Judiciary Chief, pinpointing his longstanding commitment to fight corruption and make structural reforms in the judicial system. 

MAS/PA