TEHRAN -- Nasrin Djazani, a university professor from Shahid Beheshti University said, "The proportion of female students enrolled for the first time in programs leading to a bachelor's degree increased to 71% this year; although hiring rate of women is only 11%.

"Eliminating sexual discrimination against women should lead us to equal opportunities for both genders, based on their qualifications" said Nasrin Djazani, in a meeting with managers of public sector in Qazvin Province.

"Inverse discrimination has been a result of eliminating sexual discrimination against women in certain Western countries, so that men in these countries have begun to fight for their rights!" she added.

25 years ago, female employment rate in Iran was 13.9%. Women were mostly hired in education and health sectors. Just after revolution, due to early retirements, female employment rate decreased to 8%. Then, during the war time it went below 8%.

In 1996, female employment rate increased to 11% and in 1998 it was only 11.1%.

"Amongst the important duties of governmental decision makers is the creation of employment for women. In order to reach the mutual development, there is no other way than utilizing all human potentials, especially women's employment potentials." Nasrin Djazani added.