The Iraqi University of Science hosted a meeting of the National Standing Committee for Community Awareness and Guidance, affiliated with the Office of the Prime Minister, with the participation of a select group of academics and specialists in the fields of education, psychological counseling, and social services.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Tariq, Dean of the College of Education at Al-Mustansiriya University; Dr. Raja Al-Mirqa, Director General of the Psychological Research Center at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Dr. Mazen, Assistant Director General of the Department of Special Needs at the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs; Dr. Fadhil, Director of the Psychological Research Center at the University of Baghdad; and Dr. Mohammed, Assistant Dean of the Ibn Rushd College of Education at the University of Baghdad, in addition to several committee members and specialists.

The meeting addressed mechanisms for joint cooperation between universities and government institutions, particularly regarding academic and training courses offered by universities to psychological centers affiliated with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. The aim is to develop the capabilities of staff at these centers and enhance the psychological and counseling services provided to beneficiaries.

Participants also explored ways to leverage academic and research expertise to support awareness and guidance programs, and to expand scientific cooperation in a manner that contributes to serving the community, promoting mental health, and building a more aware and stable social environment. Those present stressed the importance of continued coordination between academic institutions and relevant government agencies, in order to achieve integration in national efforts aimed at developing psychological and counseling services and raising the level of professional and specialized performance in this field.