Recognizing Baghdad’s selection as the Arab Tourism Capital, the Natural History Research Center and Museum, as part of its ongoing scientific activities and with the support and guidance of its Director, Assistant Professor Dr. Hana Hani Al-Saffar, organized a workshop focusing on the critical role of museums in tourism development. Given the Center’s specialization, a working paper on the significance of museums in general, and natural history museums in particular, for both domestic and international tourism was deemed essential.
The workshop, titled “Natural History Museums and Their Impact on Domestic and International Tourism,” was held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, by the Center’s Workshops and Seminars Committee. Chief Agricultural Engineer Enas Abdul Khalifa moderated the session, with the lecture delivered by the Center’s Director, Assistant Professor Dr. Hana Hani Al-Saffar. This initiative aligns with the environmental and sustainability objectives of quality education, life on land, renewable energy, climate action, and decent work and economic growth.
The primary objective of this workshop was to educate the public about the importance of museums, especially natural history museums, and to underscore their significance as scientific, cultural, and tourist destinations.
Key outcomes and recommendations emerging from the workshop include:
Increasing financial investment in museums, recognizing their role in representing the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.
Establishing twinning agreements with comparable international museums to facilitate the exchange of expertise and the adoption of modern technologies in areas such as preservation, audio-visual and artistic techniques, and contemporary display methods.
Providing incentives for researchers within museums, including awarding additional points on performance evaluations and offering financial rewards.
Allocating opportunities for postgraduate studies in specialized museum fields outside of Iraq.
Ensuring the provision of necessary facilities to accommodate and facilitate the movement of tourists interested in visiting museums.
The Center extends its best wishes to its faculty members for their continued success in serving society, advancing science, and enriching knowledge.
