A group of students at the Islamic Azad University have, in an open letter, protested the sudden and significant hikes in tuition fees, especially variable tuition fees. The letter states that a “two- to threefold” increase in tuition in a single semester is incompatible with the country’s economic realities and has placed a heavy burden on families.
Addressed to the Minister of Science, Research and Technology and the officials of the Islamic Azad University, the students warned that recent decisions could lead to widespread indebtedness, increased psychological pressures, and even dropping out of university. The authors of the letter emphasized that this trend will undermine educational equity.
The letter states that the hasty increases in tuition have consequences beyond financial problems and have affected students’ quality of life and studies; according to the students, many have been forced to take on arduous jobs, and their peace of mind and academic focus have been disrupted.
In this open letter, the students call for an immediate and fundamental review of the decision. The demands listed in the letter are as follows:
1. Halt unreasonable tuition increases.
2. Set an annual increase cap in line with the official inflation rate.
3. Clarify the basis for tuition calculations and the allocation of tuition revenues.
4. Hold an official meeting with student representatives to hear their concerns and find a joint solution.
