Problems of secondary education in rural Iran: An anthropological view∗

Statistics on implementing secondary education in rural Iran indicate that such a process has not been successful. Data gathered by the author during 1974/75 fieldwork support such a conclusion. It is suggested that lack of success of secondary education in rural Iran may be attributed to some cultural and economic factors which vary for men and women. The importance of the modesty code and observation of purdah (seclusioņ) may account for the low enrollment of females in secondary education in rural areas. However, the need for agricultural laborers in the villages may account for the low attendance of males. Background to the development of modern education is presented .