The Iranians, contrary to popular notions, are an extremely well educated and resourceful people.
Their education system, both primary and secondary, put ours to shame. Their Universities are not as good as ours.
The reason Iran has failed to become an industrialized, profitable country has much more to do with an Islamic theocracy than it does with the abilities of the people.
JMHO
Then why have these people continued for so long to be subjugated by "leaders"?