I have often told my children to strive for significant political positions in the future, such as the presidency, leadership, ministry, and parliamentary positions. I explain to them that the fate of a country is determined not by its military, doctors, engineers, or athletes, but by its politicians. Thus, if we neglect to encourage our honest and talented children to access political positions, these responsibilities will fall into unworthy hands, and the outcome will be what you and I both know.
My eldest son is taking his entrance exams this year. I have great hopes for him. In the periodic exams of the Educational Institute, he has achieved good ranks and scores so far. However, the problem is that his focus is solely on engineering fields, and he has no interest in humanities or particularly in political science.
I have no issue with him pursuing one of the engineering fields he is interested in thoroughly, and in the future, or simultaneously, learning politics. Then, following my advice, he could gradually strive to secure important political positions in the country, with the aim of elevating the nation and selflessly serving the people.
Today, I thought a lot about how to encourage him towards an engineering major that fulfills both his desires and my ambition to steer him towards politics. While pondering this, I recalled that for several years, many media outlets and especially social networks have repeatedly mentioned a field called “electoral engineering.” I thought to myself, this must be a good major, as it satisfies his wish to study engineering while also aligning with my goal since elections are inherently a political subject.
Of course, in the coming days, I need to do more research and gather complete information about this engineering field. Most importantly, if my son pursues this major to the end, what will its job market be like in the future? If it’s the case that he would study for years without job prospects, or his knowledge in electoral engineering would only be useful once every few years during elections, then studying in this field does not have logical or economic justification.
On the other hand, I know that the universities in our city do not offer this engineering major. Hence, I must guide him to study in such a field in a larger city like Tehran, at a good university such as Imam Hossein University or any other reputable institution.
Of course, these are all thoughts running through my mind, and tonight, I will consult with my son on the matter.
Mohammad Mahdavifar
Deminer and Diver of the Sacred Defense
13th of Bahman 1394 [February 2, 2016]