The American University of Iraq-Baghdad (AUIB) has been granted the prestigious UNESCO Chair on Education for Health and Well-Being. This marks the first time that a UNESCO Chair of this kind has been established in the Arab region. By participating in the UNITWIN/UNESCO Chairs Programme (University Twinning and Networking Scheme, i.e. the UNESCO official network for interuniversity cooperation), AUIB has become part of one of UNESCO’s most significant initiatives. This programme is UNESCO’s official network for interuniversity cooperation comprised of 1000+ UNESCO Chairs and university networks across 125 countries.
The UNESCO Chair at AUIB is committed to contributing to Iraq’s Education Strategy and UNESCO’s Education for Health and Well-Being strategy. These joint initiatives aim to improve the physical and mental health and well-being of individuals and promote knowledge exchange between communities. The Chair strives to transform the university into a center that can attract distinguished experts to help enhance the integration of education and health programs. Additionally, it aims to establish links between Iraqi researchers and researchers from around the world, especially in specializations related to complementary visions between education, health, and society’s well-being. The Chair also focuses on building national capabilities in partnership with UNESCO in Paris.
In 1992, the UNESCO Chair programme was initiated during the 26th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Its objective was to enhance strategic collaboration between UNESCO and higher education institutions across the globe.
The UNESCO Chair on Education for Health and Well-Being at AUIB enables researchers and faculty members of Iraqi universities to collaborate with over 10000 esteemed academics and researchers worldwide who are dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge through international cooperation. This collaboration provides an opportunity for interdisciplinary networking, scientific research, and training within the fields of the Chair.
UNESCO aims to support the Chair’s researchers by facilitating their participation in various activities organized by UNESCO and its partner institutions. This support is a testament to UNESCO’s recognition of the crucial role played by the Chair in accomplishing its work and objectives. UNESCO offers valuable opportunities for collaboration among universities in various areas, including sharing experiences, participating in programs, and developing joint strategic plans. Additionally, it empowers researchers within the UNESCO Chair at AUIB to stay consistently updated on global events. This includes the initiation of projects, fostering intellectual dialogues, and contributing to the formulation of public policies and strategies under the guidance of the overarching UNESCO organization on a global scale.
Finally, the establishment of the UNESCO Chair on Education for Health and Well-Being at AUIB serves as a crucial milestone in the development of education and healthcare in Iraq and the broader region. Undoubtedly, the university aims to utilize its expertise to address fundamental societal needs in education and health.