Professor Dr Ali Abdul-Amir Sajit, Dean of the College of Arts at the University of Baghdad and Chair of the Committee of Deans of Colleges of Arts and Languages in Iraq, participated in a meeting hosted by His Excellency the President of the Republic, Mr Nizar Amedi, on Sunday, 13 September 2026, at Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad. He was accompanied by several committee members who serve as deans of colleges of arts at Iraqi universities, as well as Professor Dr Ihsan Ali Al-Haidari, Chair of the National Council for the Accreditation of Academic Programmes in Colleges of Arts, Languages, and Archaeology, and Assistant Professor Dr Hossam Kanaan Waheed, Rapporteur of the Committee.
The meeting addressed the current state of university education in the humanities and explored ways to enhance academic programmes, teaching, and research in line with rapidly evolving intellectual and cultural developments. It also highlighted the role of colleges of arts and languages in fostering social awareness and developing students’ intellectual and cognitive abilities.
During the meeting, the President of the Republic emphasised the importance of the humanities and arts in shaping individuals and strengthening cultural and social awareness. He stressed the need to continue developing curricula and academic programmes, supporting scientific research, and providing a suitable university environment that improves educational outcomes and strengthens the contribution of the humanities to society.
For his part, the Dean of the College of Arts expressed his sincere appreciation to the President of the Republic for his continued support for higher education and the humanities, commending his directives aimed at advancing academic development. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to improving curricula and educational programmes, raising academic and research standards, and enhancing the capabilities of its academic and administrative staff, thereby strengthening the College’s academic, cultural, and societal role.
Professor Dr Ali Abdul-Amir Sajit also outlined several challenges facing colleges of arts and languages. Meanwhile, Professor Dr Ihsan Ali Al-Haidari discussed the key obstacles hindering their development and presented a range of perspectives and proposals aimed at addressing these challenges and improving their academic performance.
At the conclusion of the meeting, it was agreed that a committee would be formed to prepare a comprehensive study identifying the principal challenges and obstacles facing colleges of arts and languages and proposing practical solutions to address them. The study will subsequently be submitted to the President of the Republic’s Chief Adviser, with the aim of supporting academic institutions, developing their programmes, and strengthening their contribution to Iraq’s educational, scientific, and cultural advancement.
