The Natural History Research Center and Museum participated in two scientific workshops held by the Ministry’s team on invasive and alien species in the Iraqi environment. These workshops, organized by Tikrit University/College of Science/Department of Life Sciences, took place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The Center’s delegation included Assistant Professor Dr. Hanaa Hani Al-Saffar, the Center’s Director and a member of the Ministerial Committee; Professor Dr. Razzaq Shaalan Akal, Head of the Ministerial Subcommittee; and Assistant Professor Dr. Hind Dhia Hadi, a member of the Ministerial Committee.
The specialized workshops aimed to raise awareness of the concept of invasive and alien species and the environmental risks resulting from their spread in Iraq. They also emphasized the crucial role of governmental institutions, universities, and research centers in conducting environmental studies, identifying invasive species, and mitigating their impact on biodiversity.
During the workshops, researchers recommended implementing early-warning and periodic-monitoring programs for invasive and alien species in Iraq. They also advocated for supporting scientific studies and research on biodiversity and introduced species, as well as strengthening cooperation between governmental institutions, universities, and research centers to identify invasive species using modern methods. She also emphasized the importance of activating the role of agricultural and veterinary quarantine to prevent the introduction of alien species.
This includes raising public awareness about the dangers of invasive species and their impact on the environment and public health, and ultimately protecting ecosystems, water bodies, and biodiversity from the risks posed by these introduced species.
At the end of the workshop, our center’s faculty members were honored with letters of appreciation from the President of Tikrit University.
This activity contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
