Iraq Education Conference Discusses Role of Higher Education in Building Cultural Bridges & Cooperation with U.S. Universities

Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research

Ministry News

29-10-2026

The main session held as part of the third edition of the Iraq Education Conference discussed the role of higher education in building cultural bridges and expanding academic cooperation with U.S. universities in ways that facilitate the exchange of expertise, advance educational programmes and strengthen universities’ responsiveness to community needs and labour market requirements.

The Director General of the Scholarships and Cultural Relations Directorate, Prof. Dr. Hazim Baqir Tahir moderated the session with the participation of Chief Academic Officer at the University of Detroit Mercy, Dr. Ahmed Radwan; Director of Business Development and International Programs at the University of California, Davis, Mr. Christopher Marconi; Senior Public Engagement Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Iraq, Mr. Johnny Omar Hashma; and Executive Director of Open Hearts Academy, Ms. Jenny Nieveen.

The discussions highlighted the importance of building effective academic partnerships between Iraqi and U.S. universities and developing avenues for scientific and cultural cooperation.

They also addressed the alignment of academic programmes with labour market requirements and the importance of preparing graduates for professional life by linking university education with career pathways from the early stages of study.

The participants also stressed the importance of directing higher education towards meeting community needs and of harnessing academic cooperation and specialised expertise to address societal priorities.

These discussions form part of ongoing efforts to expand international partnerships and exchange academic experiences in ways that support the development of the higher education system and strengthen the role of universities in responding to development priorities.

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From Education to Development: Global Partnerships and Universities Shaping the Future

University of Baghdad on 28–29 October 2026