Baghdad: The Ministry of Education affirmed that the procedures for printing textbooks for the current academic year are proceeding according to clear regulations and instructions, and that quality and efficiency standards are being applied in awarding printing contracts and fostering competition among companies and printing houses.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry's official spokesperson, Karim Al-Sayed, stated in a press release: "The procedures for printing textbooks have been prepared to ensure the highest standards of technical quality and efficiency, serving the best interests of Iraqi students and families." He added that the Ministry formed specialized committees that conducted field investigations into the capabilities of printing houses and companies, and adopted quality as a fundamental criterion in the awarding and competitive bidding process, without discrimination. Al-Sayed explained that all bids are subject to publicly announced technical, legal, and financial standards to ensure equal opportunities and safeguard public funds.

Al-Sayed clarified that the amount allocated for printing books this year represents approximately one-third of the funds allocated for this purpose in previous years, relative to the number of students. He also noted that the Ministry is also relying on the recycling of previously used books to rationalize spending while maintaining the quality of the final product.

The spokesperson indicated that all procedures are subject to oversight by the relevant authorities in accordance with applicable legal frameworks. The extension of the bidding deadlines came in response to requests and complaints submitted by a group of company and printing press owners who confirmed their inability to complete the requirements for preparing and submitting their bids within the previously specified timeframe.

He continued that the Ministry decided to extend the deadline after formal consultations with the relevant higher authorities, with the aim of broadening the scope of competition, providing opportunities for the largest possible number of participants, and reinforcing the principles of transparency and fair competition.

The Ministry of Education called for accuracy and obtaining information from official sources, emphasizing its continued commitment to completing the textbook printing process within the established timeframes for the start of the academic year.