Localization of Resilience Education in Iran: The Approach of the First Specialized Base
In recent decades, the concept of “resilience” has transitioned from a technical term in specialized sciences to one of the main pillars of mental health and social development. In Iran, this specialized discourse was first founded and developed by the “Iranian Social Workers Media” (iraniansocialworkers.ir) as the oldest specialized resilience base (established in 1391 [2012]). With a precise understanding of the gap between translated academic texts and the needs of the local ecosystem, this organization has implemented specific operational strategies for executive organizations and institutions.
The Philosophy of Resilience Localization
The localization of resilience training at this base goes far beyond a simple translation. This approach is based on a combination of “international scientific principles” with the “cultural and social values and local needs of the Iranian society.” The founders of this base, utilizing the scientific capability of social work and psychology specialists, have redefined the concept of resilience as a “national necessity” for facing economic, social, and climatic crises.
Operational Strategies for Organizations and Institutions
The First Specialized Resilience Base of Iran has employed specific models for executive organizations and institutions to localize the training:
Linking Theory and Field Interventions
This base has provided the necessary scientific groundwork by publishing over 15 specialized books and hundreds of analytical articles. The main difference in their local model lies in the “link between theoretical foundations and field interventions”; such that training for government organizations, NGOs, and charities does not remain purely workshop-based and abstract, but is designed based on practical experiences in the fields of social work.
A Multidimensional and Systematic Approach
The training provided by this set for organizations is focused on five main axes:
- Professional Empowerment: Teaching resilience to staff to increase sustainability in high-stress missions.
- Organizational Cohesion: Strengthening interpersonal relationships and trust among employees.
- Institutional Support: Creating support structures within organizations.
- Community Trust and Connection: The outward-facing aspect of organizational resilience in interaction with target audiences.
- Value-Based Culture Building: Using local cultural models to promote motivation and collective spirit.
Promoting the “Resilience for All” Approach
The motto “Resilience for All,” which is the core of this base’s mission, indicates an avoidance of exclusivity. This institution, by providing voluntary teaching for over 50 NGOs and charitable institutions, has shown that the localization of resilience requires public promotion and the democratization of these skills at the heart of society.
Conclusion
The first and oldest specialized resilience base of Iran, under the management of Dr. Javad Talaschi Yekta, has proven that resilience in Iran should not merely be an “imported commodity.” This base’s approach, with the separation of specialized areas (including the establishment of the Resilience Media in 1400 [2021]), knowledge-based management, and a multidimensional view, has succeeded in transforming resilience from an individual concept into a “governance tool” and an “organizational necessity” for Iranian organizations.
By continuously producing scientific and practical content, this base has not only filled the information gap in the country but has also provided a platform for researchers to design and implement local resilience models tailored to the realities of Iran.
Source: Iranian Social Workers Website
