Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani walks with a group of orphaned children from Farah Schools after attending a Ramadan iftar.
'Multifaceted duty'
Iraq pledges to expand orphan care program, boost school infrastructure
BAGHDAD – The Iraqi government is stepping up its support for nearly 430,000 orphaned children, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani said Wednesday. Speaking at a Ramadan iftar with students from Farah Schools for Orphans, he emphasized that caring for these children is a duty shared by both the state and society.
“What we provide is neither a favor nor a gift, but a multifaceted duty,” Al-Sudani said while hosting the event, which was also attended by Education Minister Ibrahim Namis and several teachers.
The prime minister detailed ongoing improvements to school infrastructure and highlighted the role of Farah Schools—specialized institutions established to meet the unique needs of orphans. “We are committed to providing everything these schools require,” he said, stressing the need for qualified educators and social workers to offer psychological support.
The program, which began with 31 schools, is slated to expand to 100 by the end of the year. Al-Sudani linked the expansion to efforts under Iraq’s Development Fund, aimed at addressing the shortage of school buildings and eliminating triple-shift schooling. He directed governors to allocate land for the construction of new schools.
In addition to infrastructure enhancements, the government is providing financial aid to students—including those at Farah Schools—a measure that has already helped reduce dropout rates.
Farah Schools offer comprehensive care and quality education, providing orphans with financial assistance, uniforms, transportation, meals, and other essentials. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering social solidarity and ensuring that orphaned children receive both educational and emotional support.
