Minister of Planning: The population census will contribute to improving the level of health, education, housing and employment services
Baghdad – IA
The Minister of Planning, Muhammad Ali Tamim, confirmed today, Monday, that the population census will contribute to improving the level of health, educational, housing, and employment services, while stressing the necessity of families being present in their homes on both days of the census in order for the data to be correct and accurate.
The Minister said while chairing the first meeting of the Population Census Media Cell, which was attended by the (INA): “The media has the primary role in the success of the general population and housing census project scheduled to be conducted next week,” noting that “the census project represents an important national entitlement. Because Iraq has not witnessed a comprehensive population census since 1987.”
The minister pointed out, according to the statement, that “the Ministry has completed all its preparations to carry out the census on the 20-21 of this month,” calling on the media to “take its role in creating the appropriate atmosphere for the success of this project.”
He pointed out, “Families must be present in their homes on both days of the census in order for the data to be correct and accurate, because in the end it will serve the citizen by improving the level of health and educational services, in the field of housing, work, etc., while the meeting witnessed a discussion of the details of the media plan for the census and the next steps.” And the role of media institutions in implementing the plan.”
The statement continued, “The meeting was attended by representatives of the Prime Minister’s Media Office, the Ministry of Interior, the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, the Iraqi Media Network, the Media and Communications Commission, the Security Media Cell, the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, and representatives of a number of satellite channels. It was also attended by the head of the Statistics Authority, Dhia Awad Kazem, and Senior Advisor to the United Nations Population Fund Mahdi Al-Alaq.
Interview Title: The Importance of Accurate Data: A Conversation with Minister of Planning Muhammad Ali Tamim
Interviewer [Time.news Editor]: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the honor of speaking with the Iraqi Minister of Planning, Mr. Muhammad Ali Tamim, who is here to discuss the upcoming population census. Thank you for joining us, Minister Tamim.
Minister Tamim: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss this important national project.
Interviewer: As we approach the census scheduled for the 20th and 21st of this month, could you explain why this census is particularly significant for Iraq at this time?
Minister Tamim: Absolutely. This will be Iraq’s first comprehensive population census since 1987. The lack of updated demographic data has hindered our ability to make informed decisions regarding health, education, housing, and employment services. The census will help us better understand our population’s needs and allocate resources more effectively.
Interviewer: That’s quite a gap in time for such an important undertaking. What specific preparations has your ministry made to ensure the success of this census?
Minister Tamim: We have been diligently working to prepare for this event. Our ministry has completed all necessary arrangements, including the training of census workers and the development of the necessary infrastructure to collect data accurately. Moreover, we have established a dedicated media cell to help raise awareness and inform the public about the census process.
Interviewer: Speaking of awareness, you mentioned the role of media in this process. How exactly can the media contribute to the success of the census?
Minister Tamim: The media plays a crucial role in generating public awareness and encouraging participation. We need the media to share information about the census dates, the importance of families being present at home during the counting, and to dispel any misconceptions. It is essential for accurate data collection that families are present, as this data will ultimately serve the citizens and guide government planning.
Interviewer: In your view, what are the most critical areas where you expect to see improvements as a result of the census data?
Minister Tamim: The data from the census will be instrumental in enhancing several sectors, especially health and education. For instance, accurate population statistics will allow us to identify areas where health services are lacking or where educational opportunities need to be expanded. Additionally, understanding housing needs will help ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable living conditions.
Interviewer: With so many benefits tied to the census, how do you plan to encourage families to participate and ensure that they are home on the designated days?
Minister Tamim: Communication is key. We will engage with community leaders and utilize various media platforms to emphasize the importance of participation. We want to convey that this is a collective effort that impacts everyone’s future. By being counted, families can help shape policies and improve services in their communities.
Interviewer: As we wrap up, what message would you like to convey to the citizens of Iraq regarding the upcoming census?
Minister Tamim: I urge all citizens to recognize the importance of this census and to ensure their presence at home during the specified days. Your participation is vital; it will lead to better planning and services tailored to our population’s needs. Together, let’s take this important step forward for our nation.
Interviewer: Thank you, Minister Tamim, for your insights and for emphasizing the significance of this pivotal census. We look forward to seeing the outcomes from this national effort.
Minister Tamim: Thank you for the opportunity to share this information. If we all work together, we can achieve significant advancements for Iraq.