The University of Basrah and the Norwegian Refugee Organization (NRC) opened their first training courses at the College of Agriculture within the SAAVI program funded by the European Union. The opening of the first training session was attended by the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Prof. Dr. Sarmed Ghazi Muhammad, the Scientific Assistant, Dr. Sadiq Jabbar Mohsen, and the CDC Manager, Dr. Majed Ashoor Khalaf, in addition to the trainers and representatives of the organization.

The SAAVI program is known for strengthening value chains for agriculture and agri-food and improving trade policies in Iraq. It aims to develop comprehensive economic growth and create job opportunities for young people by improving the competitiveness of the agricultural sector, by developing and implementing sector strategies for high-potential products, and building productive and commercial alliances to enhance the competitiveness of farmers and small and medium enterprises, with a focus on empowering young people and enhancing their skills in entrepreneurship and business skills.