Kirkuk: The Archaeological Training and Development Department, in partnership with the Investigations and Excavations Department at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, organized a specialized training course titled “Ways to Address the Challenges of Exploiting Archaeological Sites” in the Kirkuk Governorate. This initiative was part of the department’s 2026 strategic plan and was overseen by key officials, including the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities for Arts Affairs and the Director General of the Studies and Research Department, Qasim Taher Al-Sudani.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani highlighted the critical role of specialized courses in enhancing the skills and efficiency of staff, which in turn supports the broader efforts to protect Iraq’s archaeological and heritage sites. The training is aimed at preserving Iraq’s cultural and civilizational legacy.

The course focused on identifying the primary challenges that archaeological sites face and explored strategies to address these issues and prevent their exploitation. Additionally, it emphasized the development of personnel skills, aiming to improve their capabilities in effectively safeguarding sites and maintaining their cultural significance.