Over 636,000 Iraqi teachers to begin new school year preparations

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Education said more than 636,000 teachers will report to schools on Saturday to prepare for the new academic year. According to the ministry, 636,864 teachers will begin duty ahead of students' return on September 20. The ministry said schools have completed the necessary preparations for the new term. Education Minister Abdul Karim Abtan al-Jubouri told staff that the teaching cadre should approach the new year with a sense of responsibility, discipline and teamwork, and that every student should receive proper attention. The ministry also noted that a school's true preparation begins once its staff arrives. With teachers set to begin work Saturday, the practical preparation period for the new academic year will officially be underway.