Basra: The Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil, Eng. Hayyan Abdul Ghani Al-Sawad, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to supporting activities that enhance performance levels for research, scientific, and training institutions within the Ministry. During his attendance at the second oil training institutes festival in Basra, the Minister highlighted the significance of the festival’s scientific, cultural, and sports competitions, which reflect the creative and youthful initiatives aimed at building a qualified and efficient generation for the oil sector.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Minister noted that over five decades, approximately 65,000 students have graduated from the five oil training institutes in various oil and gas specialties, contributing significantly to the national oil industry. He mentioned that recent years have seen a scientific renaissance within these institutes, with continuous updates to curricula, modernized training methods, and the establishment of specialized centers for safety, welding, and drilling.
The Minister also stressed that the government’s program focuses on investing in human capital as a crucial resource for societal and economic development, particularly within the oil sector.
Hisham Yas Shaalan, Director General of the Training and Development Department, stated that the festival represents a tradition of creativity and competition among students through various activities. Kamal Inside Jaber, Director of the Institute of Oil Training in Basra and head of the festival’s organizational committee, added that the event featured scientific, cultural, and sports competitions, with 21 scientific research presentations and sports contests for the minister’s cup.
The festival concluded with the Minister of Oil honoring the winners and a documentary showcasing the activities of the five oil training institutes over the past six months. The event was attended by the Governor of Basra, Saad Al-Eidani, House of Representatives member Ali Shaddad Al-Faris, and several ministry officials.