The Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced the official launch of the Central Laboratories Project, developed in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Ministry Advisor Alaa Abdul Hassan stated that under the direct supervision of Minister Naeem Al-Aboudi, the ministry has spent the past three years meticulously planning the establishment of a cutting-edge research facility—one of the largest and most advanced in the history of Iraq’s higher education sector.

He noted that the technical and engineering designs for the project have been completed, and the infrastructure is now ready to accommodate advanced laboratories, including a subcritical system. The facility will also feature various specialized labs accessible to students, researchers, and academics, strategically located in the heart of Baghdad.

Abdul Hassan emphasized that this landmark scientific initiative is the result of close cooperation with the IAEA, led by the Minister of Higher Education in his capacity as Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of Iraq. “This partnership included extensive meetings and negotiations, which led to key agreements enabling Iraq to establish the laboratories in line with the highest international standards,” he said, highlighting that technical supervision from the IAEA will ensure both safety and operational efficiency.

“Today, work on implementing the project has officially begun,” Abdul Hassan added. “Plans for advanced equipment and laboratory systems have been finalized within a clear and ambitious vision aimed at completing the project in record time.”

He concluded that the ministry is following a structured implementation timeline, with the project expected to provide an integrated educational and research environment. Once completed, it will strengthen Iraq’s scientific capacity, enhance research and innovation, and advance the country’s efforts in the peaceful use of nuclear and energy technologies.