The Student Activities Division of the College of Arts at the University of Baghdad, under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ali Abdul Amir Sajet, Dean of the College of Arts, and the supervision of Prof. Dr. Mohammed Abid Mashkur, Associate Dean for Administrative and Financial Affairs, with the presence of Prof. Dr. Ali Aboud Muhammadawi, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, organised a distinguished artistic scout festival titled ‘Scouting Teaches Leadership and the Arts Weave Happiness”
The event coincided with Baghdad Day and featured two main segments. The first segment, entitled “Scouts – Wisdom and Leadership,” featured the Scouting Team of the College of Arts and the Scouting Team of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences for Girls. The second segment, entitled “Art and Creativity in Painting,” comprised an exhibition of visual art, including plastic paintings, free-drawing displays, and sculptures. Additionally, the event hosted faculty members from the Institute of Fine Arts, including Prof. Nawar Dhia Alnuaimy, Institute Director, and Assistant Lecturer Wijdan Raheem, Sculpture Instructor
The festival was held in the parks of the College of Arts on Monday, 18 November 2024, and was attended by a significant number of students, faculty, and staff from the College of Arts. At the conclusion of the event, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Abid Mashkur presented certificates of appreciation to the professors and artists who participated
The primary aim of the festival was to cultivate a spirit of collaboration and teamwork among students by introducing them to the fundamental activities of the scout movement, including camping trips, flag-raising ceremonies, and group cooperation in tasks such as setting up tents and organising camp arrangements. These activities encourage responsibility, teamwork, and national pride among participants
The festival also highlighted the importance of organising additional art festivals throughout the academic year to encourage students with artistic talents, particularly in painting. Such events provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their abilities, learn from established artists, and motivate those interested in drawing but lacking the requisite skills or resources to develop their talents during their time at the university
It is important that these activities be repeated by the scouting team to reinforce the significance of scouting and its role in identifying and nurturing young people’s talents, facilitating their growth in self-reliance, and motivating them to engage in altruistic activities and contribute to the community through meaningful volunteer work
Furthermore, organising additional art festivals on significant occasions throughout the academic year will provide an opportunity for students with artistic abilities to showcase their work, while also offering those with an interest in drawing but limited experience the chance to practice and refine their skills
In conclusion, the festival successfully demonstrated the value of scouting in fostering leadership and teamwork, while also promoting the arts as a means of self-expression and community contribution. By continuing to organise such events, the university can further cultivate the talents of its students and encourage both personal growth and active participation in community service