The College of Agriculture at the University of Basra is holding a joyous central festival to commemorate the birth anniversary of Imam Ali (peace be upon him).

Under the patronage and in the presence of the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Professor Dr. Sarmad Ghazi Mohammed Al-Shawi, and with the attendance of the Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs, Professor Dr. Sadiq Jabbar Mohsen, and under the slogan "Ali: A Beacon of Knowledge and Giving," the College of Agriculture held a grand celebration and cultural festival today to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), the successor of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The festival, held in the college's main hall, was attended by a large number of faculty members, staff, and students. The event began with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by the playing of the national anthem and the university anthem.

The festival included a speech by the Dean, who emphasized drawing lessons from the life of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in patience, justice, and dedication to academic and professional work. Poetry was recited by student and guest poets, celebrating the virtues of the Commander of the Faithful and his great stature in Islamic history. The poems also explored aspects of Imam Ali's (peace be upon him) thought on administration and development. The event also featured an exhibition of artwork and handicrafts that commemorated the auspicious occasion.

The Dean affirmed that "commemorating this occasion represents a moment of reflection on the complete human character of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and an incentive to exert greater efforts to elevate the academic and educational standards, following his example in the pursuit of knowledge and service to society."

The festival concluded with the Dean distributing certificates of appreciation to the participants and outstanding individuals, amidst an atmosphere of joy and happiness on this blessed occasion, which united hearts and renewed the commitment to giving back to the university and the nation.