A doctoral dissertation at the College of Education for Humanities at the University of Basra examined Mazhar al-Shawi's role in developing the Iraqi Ports Authority (1958-1963).
The dissertation, presented by student Sara Ahmed Monis, examines the pivotal role played by Major General Mazhar Ismail al-Shawi in developing the Iraqi Ports Authority during the period from 1958 to 1963, considered one of the most prosperous eras in the history of Iraqi ports.
The dissertation included al-Shawi's achievements during his tenure as Director General of the Iraqi Ports Authority after his appointment by Abdul Karim Qasim following the July 14, 1958 Revolution. Within five years, he was able to transform Iraqi ports from a local to a regional level, making them the main commercial center for the Gulf states. The dissertation focused on analyzing the administrative and development policies pursued by al-Shawi, including his contribution to laying the foundation stone for the Umm Qasr Port and the deep-water port for oil tankers, developing port infrastructure, improving working conditions for employees, and providing training and qualification programs at British institutes. The study also addressed the challenges Al-Shawi faced and how he dealt with them, the reasons that made his tenure so highly appreciated and admired by international navigation experts, and the impact of the end of his term in 1963 on the subsequent performance of Iraqi ports, which confirms the importance of efficient management and strategic vision in developing the country's vital sectors
