Under the patronage of the University of Al-Mustaqbal and the supervision of its President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, the sixth edition of the Babylon Animation Film Festival commenced on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the university. The two-day festival brings together Arab and international participants, alongside a distinguished group of artists, writers, intellectuals, and cinema enthusiasts. The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ali Al-Shalah, Director of the Babylon International Festival of Cultures and Arts, as well as a number of cultural and artistic figures. The festival features animated films from Egypt, Russia, the Republic of Tatarstan, Ukraine, Tunisia, Lebanon, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Palestine, and the Sultanate of Oman, reflecting the cultural and artistic diversity that characterizes the event. The ceremony began with the Iraqi national anthem, followed by a speech on behalf of the University of Al-Mustaqbal, delivered by Prof. Dr. Muzaffar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, representing the University President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi. In his address, he welcomed the guests and participating delegations, highlighting the importance of hosting artistic and cultural events that encourage the exchange of creative experiences and strengthen communication among artists and intellectuals from Iraq and around the world. He also emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enrich the cultural and artistic landscape. For his part, the Festival President, Prof. Dr. Amer Sabah Al-Marzouk, highlighted the importance of the Babylon Animation Film Festival in showcasing diverse experiences in animation filmmaking, encouraging creative cinematic production, and providing filmmakers with opportunities to exchange expertise and artistic ideas. The first day’s program combines film screenings with intellectual discussions. The morning session featured 14 films from several participating countries, while the evening program includes screenings of 17 films, alongside a panel discussion entitled “Artificial Intelligence and Animation Filmmaking,” addressing modern technological developments and their implications for the future of animation. The opening ceremony also featured a tribute to the University of Al-Mustaqbal and the President of the Babylon International Festival of Cultures and Arts in recognition of their efforts to support cultural and artistic activities and contribute to the success of creative initiatives. The festival’s second day is scheduled to include a book-signing ceremony and film screenings highlighting Egyptian animation schools, marking 90 years of Arab animation cinema. The program will also feature tributes to participants and festival committees, the reading of the closing statement, the announcement of the results, and the presentation of awards. The University of Al-Mustaqbal’s sponsorship of this event reflects its commitment to strengthening its presence in cultural and artistic activities, supporting creative talent, and providing an environment that nurtures initiatives bringing academic institutions and creative professionals together. These efforts contribute to revitalizing cultural life in Babylon Governorate and highlighting its status as an important center of cultural heritage and artistic expression Al-Mustaqbal University Ranks First Among Private Universities in Iraq
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