Ali Qoli Khan’s education was a mix of traditional Persian schooling and modern academic training. He studied at the Sepahdar School, an institution known for its commitment to modernizing education in Iran. Later, he attended the prestigious Dar al-Fonun, the country’s first modern polytechnic school established during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar.
Eager to expand his horizons, Ali Qoli Khan traveled to Europe, where he pursued higher education in law and political science at the University of Vienna. His time in Austria not only deepened his academic understanding but also exposed him to Western ideas of governance, diplomacy, and modernization, which would later influence his career in Iranian public service.
Diplomatic Career and Achievements
Upon completing his studies, Mirza Ali Qoli Khan returned to Iran and joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His diplomatic skills and education quickly earned him prominent roles within the ministry. He first served as the secretary of the Iranian embassy in Vienna, where he gained valuable experience navigating international relations.