His Excellency, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hasani met with the heads of private universities and colleges in Basra Governorate to the current state of private higher education, the requirements for developing its academic programs, and enhancing its role within Iraq’s higher education and scientific research system. 

Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hasani affirmed that private universities serve as a vital complement to public higher education and act as partners in developing the academic environment and achieving development goals. 

His Excellency stressed the importance of boosting their competitiveness in terms of the quality of education, scientific research, and the caliber of graduates to ensure the preparation of qualified professionals capable of meeting the needs of society and the labor market.

Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hasani said the necessity of elevating the standards of private universities and their academic programs, particularly in medical and health-related fields, while ensuring strict adherence to quality assurance, academic accreditation, and rigorous scientific standards. 

His Excellency added that the Ministry will conduct a review of several private universities and colleges, evaluating them based on performance indicators and their level of compliance with established standards, with the aim of improving their overall performance, academic efficiency, and the quality of their educational outcomes.

Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hasani also highlighted the importance of advancing curricula, investing in infrastructure, laboratories, and practical training, and fostering scientific research to create a comprehensive educational environment that enhances the standards of students and graduates, while strengthening the ability of private universities to compete effectively in accordance with academic quality benchmarks. 

Directorate of Media & Government Communication

Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research

October 22, 2026