According to a Shana correspondent, on Sunday Mohsen Paknejad visited the Tehran Petroleum Faculty on the occasion of Student Day to review the latest educational and research activities at the institution. “The future of the country is in your hands, and it cannot be built without knowledge and expertise,” he reiterated.

He told the students that Iranian students possess remarkable talent. “When an Iranian student excels at top universities around the world, it shows their exceptional intellectual ability and intelligence,” he said.

The minister added that solving the country’s problems requires a new generation of specialists. “There are scientific formulas for addressing economic issues, but only those who have completed strong academic training and understand these concepts can apply them to help the country. The nation’s trust and people’s hopes rest on you.”

Petroleum University of Technology Must Return to Its Golden Era

Paknejad advised students to take their studies seriously. “Sometimes we study only for the grade, but that approach is not correct. Every course teaches lessons that will help you throughout your career and life. Study deeply so you can serve your country,” he said.

He highlighted the university’s historic importance. “I believe the Petroleum University of Technology must return to its golden days. Many of my colleagues who now hold senior positions in the oil industry graduated from this institution,” he said.

Paknejad noted that the first vice president has clearly emphasized restoring the university to its former standing. “Mr. Aref strongly supports this, and we are fully committed to achieving it, God willing.”

The Role of Students in Addressing National Challenges

Inviting students to contribute their ideas, Paknejad said: “Omid Shakeri, the deputy minister for engineering, research and technology, is an expert in this field and is pursuing several initiatives. If you have ideas to improve the university, be sure to share them.”

Pointing to national challenges such as water shortages, fuel imbalances and economic pressures, he told the students: “Who is supposed to solve these issues? If we allow the psychological operations of our adversaries to influence us, there will be no hope left. This land ultimately depends on you to elevate it to the level worthy of the name of Iran.”

The minister referred to recent developments and the country’s progress. “In the 12-day defensive operation, the Zionist regime was truly overwhelmed. Messages exchanged afterward showed that those who once risked their lives defending this land are now seeing the results of their efforts. This expertise and knowledge can be seen in other scientific fields as well, including artificial intelligence, and it stems from the inherent intelligence and capability of Iranians. I say this proudly and without exaggeration.”

Emphasizing the students’ role in shaping the future, he added: “Believe in Iranian talent. Value yourselves and take advantage of your opportunities. The future of this country depends on you and what you learn and apply for the progress of the Iranian people.”

During his visit, Paknejad also toured several classrooms and spoke with professors and students from various disciplines. Students shared their views, questions and concerns about education, career prospects and their role in the oil industry, and presented some of their initial ideas in writing.