Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, visited the Zoroastrian heritage schools Anushiravan Dadgar and Firoozbahram. Speaking at Firoozbahram High School and Art School, he emphasized: “This is not just bricks and cement; it embodies our historical identity.”
According to ISNA, on Mehr 1, 1404, marking the start of the new school year, Minister Salehi-Amiri visited Anushiravan Dadgar, Alborz, and Firoozbahram Schools, ringing the Cultural Heritage Bell to inaugurate the academic year.
The ceremony at the girls’ school Anushiravan Dadgar was attended by members of Parliament, education officials, representatives from the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, and students. The ringing of the Cultural Heritage Bell officially marked the opening of the school year.
ISNA highlighted that Anushiravan Dadgar High School, founded in 1315, has long held a distinguished place in Iran’s modern education history. Today, welcoming students from religious minorities, it stands as a symbol of Iran’s cultural and social diversity.
During the reopening ceremony, Minister Salehi-Amiri conveyed the President’s greetings to all Iranian children, with special regards to the students of this school.
He stressed that today’s youth need hope and vitality more than ever, emphasizing: “Iran is our home, honor, dignity, and identity. Our life today exists thanks to Iran and Islam.”
The Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts highlighted students’ key role in preserving Iran’s cultural heritage: “Our students are the main guardians of our history and civilization, the trustees of heritage for future generations, and the hope of todays and tomorrow’s Iran.”
Speaking about Anushiravan Dadgar High School, he noted: “With nearly a century of history, this school was among the first to educate girls and holds a special place in our educational system.” He added that Iranian culture is like a flowing spring from which all peoples and minorities have benefited, and stressed the need to let the voice of a united Iran resonate worldwide.
During a visit to Firoozbahram High School, he said: “Our historical and cultural heritage is more valuable than central bank reserves. These schools are not mere buildings—they embody Iran’s historical identity.” Salehi-Amiri suggested school leaders collaborate with provincial authorities and called for publishing a book on heritage schools. The ringing of the Cultural Heritage Bell on the first day of school symbolized a clear message: “Iran is beautiful, enriched by the diversity of its peoples, religions, and languages.”
He also stressed the significance of national festivals and Iran’s ancient heritage, stating: “The first day of Mehr is a celebration for both the people and students. Mehregan is as important as Nowruz, and this month holds great value for us.” He noted that Iran is a land full of mysteries, and this high school lies at the center of Tehran’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
Speaking about national identity and historical unity, the minister said: “Iranians have always lived with hope, and even during times of war, our shared sense of identity and solidarity endured. Iran is our hope, and we must treasure it.”
Regarding government policies, Salehi-Amiri emphasized: “The administration of Dr. Pezeshkian promotes unity and harmony among all Iranians, with respect for every religion and ethnicity as a core principle.” He also visited the historic Alborz High School during his tour.
