Professor Dr. Saad Hassan Mohammed Ali, faculty member at the College of Dentistry – Al-Mustaqbal University and Chair of the National Certification Committee at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, took part in the 39th meeting of the Regional Certification Committee of the World Health Organization (WHO), Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa. The meeting was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 14 to 16, 2025, with the participation of official delegations from member states.
The Iraqi delegation presented the annual report on the epidemiological situation for 2024, confirming that Iraq is free from any cases of poliovirus-induced paralysis. The report was widely commended by the Regional Committee for its comprehensiveness, accuracy, and quality of data. The Committee also praised the efforts of Iraq’s surveillance teams and the National Polio Laboratory, whose contributions expanded environmental surveillance programs across multiple governorates, strengthening the country’s capacity for rapid response to any epidemiological developments.
The meeting further emphasized the importance of Iraq’s continued prioritization of Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance and environmental monitoring, along with close coordination with national immunization programs to ensure the protection of future generations. Additional recommendations were made to enhance national measures for containment and to monitor high-risk areas and vulnerable populations.
This participation highlights Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to supporting national health and scientific policies, while also underscoring its active role in representing Iraq at regional and international platforms. It reflects the University’s dedication to linking its academic mission with real-world health and social challenges, thereby reinforcing Iraq’s position in global efforts to eradicate poliovirus and safeguard future generations.
Al-Mustaqbal University – The Leading University in Iraq
Meeting of the Regional Director with WHO Representatives and Regional Office staff