Background and objectives:

Schools and other public buildings were the target of destruction, burning, looting and neglect during conflicts and economic sanctions in Iraq. The objective of this programme is to contribute to the reconstruction efforts in Iraq through the rehabilitation and reconstruction of 34 schools and higher learning institutions in Baghdad, Samawa, Nassiriya, and Basrah. In addition, it will supply schools with laboratory and workshop equipment, tools, computers and furniture.

The objectives of the project were to:

• Improve the learning environment in the schools;
• Modernize the technical and vocational education system in Iraq;
• Create employment and capacity building for local contractors.

Activities:
The main activities include:

• Rehabilitation of schools including basic services;
• Procurement of furniture;
• Capacity building for Iraqi contractors;
• Employment generation.

Results:

• 25 schools in Baghdad rehabilitated;
• Basrah Technical Institute rehabilitated;
• Building and extension works at Basrah University rehabilitated;
• Sooq Al-Shyokh Industrial School in Nassiriyia rehabilitated;
• Six educational institutes in Samawa rehabilitated;
• IT equipment delivered to the University of Technology in Baghdad;
• Laboratory and workshop equipment delivered to Basrah;
• An estimated 322,743 days of employment generated.