Iran faces rising unemployment, dropout rates

Certain goods, such as food products, are not affected by secondary sanctions on Iran. Photo: AFP

An increase in poverty rates in Iran in 2022 is not only impacting the overall population but also affecting the education sector, leading to a rise in dropout rates among students.

According to a report by Donya-e Eqtesad newspaper, the academic year 2022-2023 has seen a significant increase in dropout rates across different levels of education.

Primary schools have experienced a 1.2% rise in dropout rates, reflecting the broader trend of economic challenges faced by many Iranians.

The escalating poverty rate, reaching 30% in 2022, has made it difficult for a significant portion of the Iranian population to meet their basic needs, with detrimental effects on children’s education.

Professors warn of the damaging consequences of the high dropout rates on society, with over 175,000 students reported to have left the education system at the initial stage during the 2022-2023 academic year.