UNDP opens restored Nimrud Agricultural Institute
By John Lee.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Governments of Sweden and Italy and in coordination with Iraq's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, has officially inaugurated the restored Agricultural Technical Institute in Nimrud, located in the Ninewa Plains.
Severely damaged during years of conflict, the Institute has been transformed into a centre for agricultural education and economic development.
The first phase of the project, funded by Sweden with $1.25 million and completed in March 2023, restored essential infrastructure including classrooms, laboratories, and poultry facilities.
The second phase, supported by Italy with over $1.1 million, added new academic buildings, a student dormitory and club centre, and upgraded the broader campus infrastructure.
The revitalised institute will benefit more than 300 students and faculty and serve a surrounding population of over 250,000 people. The forthcoming reopening of a nearby Tigris River bridge is expected to further boost regional connectivity and economic activity.
Full statement from UNDP:
Restored Nimrud Agricultural Institute Opens Doors to Stability and Opportunity
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Governments of Sweden and Italy and in coordination with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, officially inaugurated the Agricultural Technical Institute in Nimrud-a major milestone under UNDP Iraq's Stabilization Programme.
Located in the heart of the Ninewa Plains, the Institute had suffered extensive damage during years of conflict. Today, it stands restored as a critical hub for agricultural education and economic opportunity for hundreds of young Iraqis.
The first phase of the project, funded by the Government of Sweden with $1.25 million, was completed in March 2023. It restored essential academic and agricultural infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, poultry facilities, and core services. The second phase, supported by the Government of Italy with over $1.1 million, further expanded academic facilities, constructed a student dormitory and club center, and upgraded campus infrastructure.
The inauguration was attended by representatives of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the President of the Northern Technical University, Dr. Alia Al-Attar, several faculty members, and the Director of Nimrud Police.
"This inauguration represents more than the reopening of a building-it is a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and Iraq's path to development," said Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative. "By investing in education and skills for youth, especially in areas impacted by conflict, we are laying the foundation for long-term stability and development."
The revitalized Institute will serve over 300 students and faculty, while benefiting the wider community of more than 250,000 residents. With the anticipated reopening of a nearby bridge across the Tigris River, it is also expected to become a key driver of regional connectivity and economic renewal.
UNDP expresses its sincere appreciation to the Governments of Sweden and Italy, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Northern Technical University for their ongoing commitment to Iraq's stabilization and development.
(Source: UNDP Iraq)
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