Baghdad - IA
Today, Thursday, prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani directed the continuation of work to prevent school dropouts.
The Prime Minister’s Media Office said in a statement – received by the (INA): “Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani chaired a special meeting of the Diwani Order Committee for the (Return to Learning) initiative adn representatives of UNICEF.”
He added, “Al-Sudani appreciated the efforts made by civil society organizations, international organizations, and the Ministry of Education, especially UNICEF, in addressing the phenomenon of dropout, which is one of the results of the abnormal circumstances that the country has experienced in recent years, such as terrorism, displacement, and poverty, which left It’s effects on all sectors, including the education sector.”
The Prime Minister explained - according to the statement – that “the issue of infrastructure is one of the most vital obstacles to the work of the Ministry of Education, starting with mud and caravan schools, which is what made the government work to complete the lagging projects, through a group of projects and initiatives such as the Chinese Framework Agreement Schools Project, and the Number One Project.” launching a project to build 600 schools through the Iraq Fund for Development in Baghdad and the provinces.
Al-Sudani directed that “the final report of the committee’s work be circulated to the ministries, governorates and local governments, and that governors be assigned – in cooperation with the government effort – to address the causes of dropouts. He also directed that work continue to follow up on students who have not returned to school.”
It is noteworthy that the initiative for the return of pupils and students to their academic seats was formed by a Diwani order from the Prime Minister’s Office last year, and its work continued for a year, and absorbed 261,338 school dropouts, some of whom dropped out due to the circumstances of the war against ISIS gangs, as the initiative was able to return (129,643) Dropped out of their school seats in formal education, or non-formal education such as literacy schools, adolescents and accelerated schools, along with registering numbers of Those returning for the external examination.
How effective have recent initiatives been in reducing school dropout rates in Iraq?
Interview: Addressing School Dropouts in Iraq – A Conversation with Education Expert Dr. Layla Rahim
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rahim. Considering Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani’s recent directive to prevent school dropouts in iraq, can you explain the importance of this initiative?
Dr. Layla Rahim: Thank you for having me. The Prime Minister’s commitment to addressing school dropouts is incredibly significant. It reflects a recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by the education system in Iraq due to factors like terrorism, displacement, and poverty. These issues have disrupted the lives of countless students,making it essential to provide them with avenues to return to education.
Editor: The report highlights the initiative’s success in absorbing over 261,000 school dropouts. Can you elaborate on the obstacles these students face and how the initiative helps overcome them?
Dr. rahim: Certainly. Manny students who drop out do so due to traumatic experiences from conflict and instability. Infrastructure is a critical barrier; many schools are inadequate, functioning in mud or caravan structures. The Prime Minister’s announcement of projects like the Chinese Framework Agreement and the initiative to build 600 new schools signals a move towards rectifying these infrastructural challenges. By improving learning environments, we allow students to feel safe and valued, which is vital for their return.
Editor: What are the practical steps being taken to ensure these initiatives are effective and lasting in the long term?
Dr.Rahim: One critical element is the continuous follow-up on students who have not returned to school. the Prime Minister has directed that final reports be circulated to various ministries and local governments, ensuring that stakeholders are held accountable. Local governors are being assigned to cooperate with the efforts, which encourages community involvement in addressing the causes of dropouts. This collaborative approach is essential for sustainability.
Editor: How do international organizations like UNICEF play a role in this educational initiative, and why is their involvement important?
Dr. Rahim: Organizations like UNICEF bring invaluable resources, expertise, and support for educational reforms. Their partnership provides frameworks that enhance the government’s ability to tackle dropout rates effectively. Through initiatives such as non-formal education programs – including literacy schools and accelerated education – UNICEF helps reach students who may not thrive in the traditional school system, thus broadening educational access.
Editor: Given the context of Iraq’s recent history, how critical is it for the education sector to evolve and adapt to these challenges?
Dr. Rahim: It’s imperative. An evolving education sector can play a pivotal role in societal healing and rebuilding. investing in education is a long-term strategy for national stability and growth. By addressing dropout challenges now, Iraq can empower its youth to become resilient, educated citizens who can positively contribute to their communities and country.
Editor: what practical advice can you offer to parents and communities who may be facing similar challenges with school dropouts?
Dr.Rahim: Parents and communities must actively engage in their children’s education,advocating for resources and support. It’s essential to maintain open dialog with schools to understand the available programs and initiatives. Communities can also work together to form support networks, share information on educational opportunities, and ensure that every child has access to learning, regardless of their circumstances.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rahim, for your insights. Your expertise shines a light on the importance of education in Iraq’s future, and we appreciate your contribution to this vital conversation.
Dr. Rahim: Thank you for having me. I hope the ongoing efforts will lead to real change, benefitting the many students eager to learn and grow.
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