Tehran - BORNA - As Iran commemorates Information Technology Day, attention turns to one of its most iconic scientific pioneers—Abu Jafar Mohammad Ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi. Revered as the “father of algebra” and the originator of the term “algorithm,” Al-Khwarizmi’s intellectual legacy remains deeply embedded in the foundations of modern science, computing, and mathematics.

A Visionary of the Islamic Golden Age

Born in the 9th century in Khwarazm (in present-day Uzbekistan), Al-Khwarizmi authored foundational texts in mathematics, astronomy, and geography. His groundbreaking work Al-Kitab al-Mukhtasar fi Hisab al-Jabr wal-Muqabala systematically introduced algebra as an independent discipline and pioneered methods for solving linear and quadratic equations. The term "algebra" originates from “al-jabr,” a concept he introduced.

His Latinized name, “Algoritmi,” gave rise to the modern word “algorithm,” now central to artificial intelligence, encryption, and computing worldwide.

A Polymath Across Disciplines

Beyond mathematics, Al-Khwarizmi played a significant role in introducing the Hindu-Arabic numeral system and positional decimal notation to Europe—an innovation that revolutionized numerical computation and displaced Roman numerals.

He also compiled one of the most detailed astronomical tables of his time and produced maps based on refined Ptolemaic coordinates. His contributions extended into calendrical science and navigation, fields essential to both Islamic and European scientific progress.

Global Recognition and Iran’s Commitment to Scientific Legacy

In 1983, UNESCO honored Al-Khwarizmi’s legacy by marking the 1200th anniversary of his birth. Four years later, Iran established the Khwarizmi International Award through the Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), aiming to promote innovation, research, and cross-border scientific collaboration.

Now in its 39th year, the award has evolved into a globally respected recognition of achievements in science, engineering, biotechnology, and innovation. The next award ceremony is scheduled for February 2026 in Tehran, with submissions open until October 1, 2025.

The festival encompasses multiple categories, including domestic, foreign, applied, and commercialized research projects, as well as exceptional accomplishments by Iranian expatriates and youth researchers.

A Day of Reflection and Forward Momentum

Information Technology Day in Iran serves not only as a national homage to Al-Khwarizmi but also as an invitation to engage with his intellectual legacy in today’s digital world. His ideas remain central to the logic underlying data processing, cryptography, and computational theory.

This annual observance encourages educational institutions, scientists, and entrepreneurs to build upon a thousand-year tradition of Iranian inquiry and innovation.

As the world navigates an era defined by algorithms, big data, and automation, the vision of Al-Khwarizmi continues to light the path forward—reminding us that even in the 9th century, science had the power to connect civilizations and shape humanity’s collective future.

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