The protection unit of Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization will hold special courses for its staff in a move aimed at improving the security of cultural and historical sites. The head of the protection unit told ILNA that the curricula of the courses have been prepared and will soon be put into practice across the country under the supervision of provincial heads of units. According to Brigadier General Amir Rahmatollahi, the plan’s main objective is to equip those who protect sites of historical and cultural value with necessary skills to guard the sites and familiarize them with modern technology and electronic systems. The official added that conservation of cultural heritage sites that are among the country’s most valuable possessions, is a “top priority of the ICHHTO and the protection unit is committed to the job.” Pointing to ICHHTO’s lack of funds to ensure the safety of all historical structures, the official said that the organizational structure of the unit has been revised and a public participation office will soon be launched to help the ICHHTO establish rapport with NGOs and activists in order to also enlist their expertise and willingness to protect historical sites.
