Iraqi Ministry of Planning Explores Resumption of School Construction in Wasit

A team from the Special Committee for Project Follow-up at the Iraqi Ministry of Planning conducted a field visit on Thursday to assess the progress of a long-delayed project aimed at constructing five primary schools in Al-Suwaira, Wasit Governorate, using prefabricated concrete construction methods.

According to the Ministry’s media office, the team reviewed the current status of the schools, including the percentage of completion, the reasons for the halt in construction, and possible solutions for resuming the work. The project, which was initially launched to address overcrowding in local schools, involves the construction of five schools. Four of the schools are designed with a capacity for 12 classrooms, while the fifth will have nine classrooms. Notably, the schools will be built without furnishings.

The project was intended to alleviate pressure on existing educational institutions in the region. However, despite progress, construction was halted in 2014, and work has not resumed since then. As a result, the schools have suffered from significant damage and deterioration, with the current completion rate standing at approximately 17%.

The Ministry of Planning has called for the necessary measures to be taken by the relevant authorities to resume construction and expedite the completion of the schools, in an effort to meet the growing demand for educational facilities in the area.

The Ministry’s intervention highlights the importance of addressing the infrastructural challenges facing Iraq’s education sector, particularly in areas experiencing rapid population growth and overcrowded classrooms. The resumption of this project is seen as a critical step in improving educational opportunities for students in Wasit Governorate and easing the strain on local schools.

This important visit marks a renewed commitment to addressing the educational needs of the region and ensuring that infrastructure projects, such as the construction of these schools, are brought to fruition.

Source: Ministry of Planning