As part of the participation of the Al-Mustaqbal University delegation in the 12th International Workshop of the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings for Sustainable Universities (IWGM 2026), hosted by Umwelt-Campus Birkenfeld, affiliated with Trier University of Applied Sciences in Germany, Assistant Professor Dr. Ali Majdi, Dean of the College of Engineering at Al-Mustaqbal University, presented a scientific research paper entitled: “The Impacts of Visual Pollution from Waste Sites on the Mental and Psychological Performance of School Students.” The presentation addressed the issue of visual pollution resulting from the accumulation of waste and indiscriminate dumping in areas surrounding schools, as well as its associated effects on students’ psychological, cognitive, and behavioral well-being. The study presented the findings of a field survey involving 400 secondary school students in Babil Governorate, using a 15-item scale addressing concentration, organization of thoughts, anxiety, psychological discomfort, behavior, and environmental awareness. The presentation also included authentic field photographs from the study sites in Babil Governorate, along with the key findings, which indicated noticeable levels of difficulty in concentration, psychological discomfort, and anxiety among students exposed to visually polluted environments. The study also highlighted the influence of such environments on certain environmental behaviors and practices. The research attracted the attention and engagement of workshop participants, particularly regarding the relationship between sustainability, the quality of the environment surrounding educational institutions, students’ psychological well-being, and their learning environment. The discussion also emphasized the importance of viewing visual pollution not merely as an aesthetic issue, but as a challenge with educational, psychological, environmental, and societal dimensions. This participation reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to strengthening its international scientific presence and connecting scientific research with sustainable development goals and real-world environmental challenges. It also underscores the role of universities in extending sustainability concepts and practices beyond the campus to the wider community and surrounding environment. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq