Enhancing Cultural and Historical Heritage: A Volunteer Experience Inspired by the International Training Programme 2024
Written by Abdulrahman Al-Khafaji, Fourth Archaeological Excavator, Department of Ancient Writings, Iraq Museum (Iraq, ITP 2024)
As part of promoting the importance of preserving cultural and historical heritage, I joined the Tour Volunteer Team in a campaign to clean up the Mustansiriya School, one of Baghdad’s most prominent historical landmarks. Established in 1233 AD during the Abbasid era by Caliph Al-Mustansir Billah, the Mustansiriya School was considered one of the leading scientific and cultural centers in the Islamic world at that time. Its curriculum included religious studies, language, medicine, and astronomy, and it stood out for its exquisite Islamic architecture, featuring unique decorations and intricately designed arches that still testify to the greatness of the Abbasid period.
My participation in this campaign stemmed from my belief in the vital role of youth and local communities in protecting and promoting heritage. The Tour Volunteer Team serves as a distinguished example of such efforts, working to raise cultural awareness through volunteer activities aimed at maintaining archaeological sites and organizing cultural events. The team inspires young people by combining a passion for heritage with a spirit of teamwork, highlighting the importance of involving the community in safeguarding our country’s cultural history.
Volunteering is not merely a social activity but an effective tool for protecting archaeological sites and enhancing their role as part of national identity. This idea was central to one of the sessions I attended as part of the British Museum’s International Training Programme in 2024, which emphasized the importance of engaging youth and local communities in preserving cultural heritage. The session explored how volunteer work can raise awareness about heritage sites, promote them as tourist destinations, and serve as a means of developing individual skills and strengthening a sense of belonging.
Beyond its role in preserving heritage, volunteering helps promote archaeological sites as a component of cultural tourism. It showcases the efforts of youth and local communities in protecting these sites to the world and fosters a positive impression of Iraq’s heritage. My experience with the team in cleaning the Mustansiriya School was personally enriching. I felt proud to contribute to the maintenance of one of Baghdad’s most important landmarks and realized the significance of collective action in achieving positive outcomes.
In conclusion, protecting heritage is a shared responsibility that requires the combined efforts of individuals and institutions. Volunteer work stands out as one of the most important tools for raising awareness and preserving our cultural identity for future generations.