First Lady Calls for National Commitment to Childhood Development as Key to Iraq’s Future

Iraqi Presidency

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed & Dr. Ismail Suleiman Hassan, Director General of the Children

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed received Dr. Ismail Suleiman Hassan, Director General of the Children’s Culture House, at Salam Palace in Baghdad to discuss the pivotal role of childhood development in shaping Iraq’s future, the Iraqi Presidency reported on Monday, 27 January 2025.

Referring to children as “our true wealth, an inexhaustible resource,” the First Lady highlighted the critical need to invest in young minds to build a prosperous and resilient society.

The meeting addressed several issues surrounding the support and development of children’s welfare programs and institutions, according to the Iraqi Presidency.

The discussions emphasised the challenges faced by the Children’s Culture House, particularly insufficient funding and limited support from relevant authorities, which hinder the execution of essential programs and initiatives.

The First Lady called on governmental and societal stakeholders to adopt effective strategies to support child welfare institutions. She underscored the urgent need for these entities to assume their responsibilities, noting the lack of clear policies and programs designed to advance children’s educational, health and developmental needs.

Expressing deep concern over the resource constraints faced by the Children’s Culture House, the First Lady lamented stalled projects and the shortage of government centers dedicated to nurturing children’s talents. She emphasised the importance of revitalising these efforts to ensure a brighter future for Iraq’s youth.

Despite the challenges, the First Lady commended the unwavering dedication of the Children’s Culture House in fulfilling its mission. She reaffirmed her support for the institution’s efforts to maintain its unique identity and implement impactful programmes, including organising cultural events, exhibitions and conferences, as well as publishing educational materials aimed at fostering creativity and talent among children.

During the meeting, Dr. Ismail Suleiman Hassan presented a comprehensive report detailing the institution’s achievements. The report highlighted purposeful content tailored to children’s developmental needs, alongside initiatives such as book publications and talent-nurturing activities.

Dr. Suleiman expressed his gratitude to the First Lady for her commitment to child welfare and her proactive advocacy for initiatives that prioritise Iraq’s youngest generation.



PUKMEDIA