The University of Tehran, recognized as one of the most important and largest universities in Iran, was founded in 1934 (1313 in the Iranian calendar). It is considered the first national university of Iran and stands as a symbol of higher education in the country.
Foundation History
The idea of establishing the University of Tehran was proposed during the Constitutional Revolution. Dr. Mahmoud Hesabi, a prominent Iranian scientist, is recognized as one of the main founders of the university. The primary objective behind its establishment was to create a center for higher education and research that could meet the scientific and educational needs of the country.
Development and Expansion
Initially, the University of Tehran began its operations with faculties of Medicine, Law, Literature, Science, Engineering, and Theology. Over the following decades, the university gradually expanded, increasing the number of faculties and academic disciplines. Today, the University of Tehran boasts more than 25 faculties and dozens of research centers and educational institutes, making it one of the leading scientific and research centers in the Middle East.
Jundi-Shapur University
To better understand the historical importance of higher education in Iran, it is essential to mention Jundi-Shapur University. Established approximately 1,750 years ago during the Sassanid era, Jundi-Shapur is considered one of the oldest universities in the world. Located in the city of Shushtar (in today’s Khuzestan province), it was renowned as a prominent center for education, research, and cultural exchange. Jundi-Shapur specialized in fields such as medicine, philosophy, and the basic sciences, and it attracted renowned scholars and professors from Iran and various parts of the world. The University of Tehran can be regarded as the heir to Jundi-Shapur University, which is recognized as one of the oldest universities in the world.
Status and Importance
The University of Tehran has played a pivotal role in training specialists, scientists, and executives for the country. Many of Iran’s leading figures in science, culture, and politics are alumni of this university. Additionally, the University of Tehran is recognized as a hub for cultural and academic exchanges with international universities and institutions and hosts numerous global scientific conferences and symposiums.
Similarly, Jundi-Shapur University, as one of the earliest academic and scientific centers in human history, played a significant role in the development of science and culture and remains a symbol of knowledge and progress in the history of Iran.
Looking to the Future
The University of Tehran continues to develop its educational and research programs, aiming to improve its position in global rankings. By focusing on innovation, advanced research, and international collaboration, the university strives to become a distinguished academic institution on a global scale. In recent years, research has gained increasing importance alongside education at the University of Tehran. In this context, the Innovation and Social Economy Research Institute has been established.
Ultimately, with over 80 years of history, and Jundi-Shapur University with its ancient legacy, both stand as symbols of knowledge, culture, and progress in Iran and continue to play a vital role in the scientific and cultural development of the country.