Al-Muthanna University Takes Significant Steps Toward Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Partnership with UNESCO

In line with the directives of Professor Dr. Hussein Kamel Al-Shaher, President of Al-Muthanna University, and as part of the university’s sustainable development strategy, the institution has successfully integrated the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its programs and activities. This effort culminated in a productive meeting with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The university’s Sustainability Evaluation Committee—comprised of Assistant Professor Dr. Maitham Hayawi Abd Noor, Assistant Professor Dr. Jasim Mohammed Kareem, and Assistant Professor Dr. Yahya Kadhim—played a significant role in collecting and analyzing university data based on SDG indicators. This meticulous work, conducted in response to survey forms issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, paved the way for the university to apply for UNESCO certification in the field.

UNESCO praised the efforts and initiatives implemented by Al-Muthanna University, leading the organization to extend an official invitation to the university’s sustainability committee for a meeting to explore avenues of enhanced cooperation. The meeting focused on the goals in which the university demonstrated notable progress, specifically Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Discussions also included prospects for forming new partnerships that would help incorporate additional SDGs into the university’s future plans and programs. In this context, the Sustainability Evaluation Committee emphasized that Al-Muthanna University was the first university in Iraq to submit its data to UNESCO, making it the first to hold such a meeting with the organization to discuss sustainability efforts. This achievement highlights the seriousness and precision of the committee’s work, supported by the continuous guidance and oversight of the university’s leadership. This milestone underscores Al-Muthanna University’s commitment to its pioneering role in society and its dedication to adopting modern global concepts related to sustainable development—contributing to building a better future for upcoming generations.