Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, chaired the second meeting of the University Council in the presence of council members to discuss key academic, administrative, and strategic development issues, review the latest ministerial directives, and highlight the University's achievements in international rankings and participation in global academic events. The meeting also addressed ways to strengthen international cooperation and further enhance the quality of education. At the beginning of the meeting, the University President commended the University's continued achievements and emphasized the importance of maintaining its leading position among private universities and colleges in Iraq, particularly in prestigious international rankings, including the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings and the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. These achievements reflect the University's ongoing efforts to improve institutional performance and enhance the quality of its educational and research outcomes. Strengthening International Cooperation and Academic Exchange In conjunction with Erasmus Days, the Council emphasized the importance of expanding international academic cooperation and benefiting from European Union programmes, particularly Erasmus+ for the 2028–2034 period. These initiatives aim to support academic mobility for students and faculty members, expand opportunities for academic exchange and scholarships, and promote collaborative educational projects, including Jean Monnet Actions. During the meeting, it was highlighted that Al-Mustaqbal University had achieved a pioneering milestone as the first private university in Iraq to secure Jean Monnet projects. The University President also reviewed his participation in the UNIMED General Assembly 2026, hosted by the University of Barcelona in Spain, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the Union of Mediterranean Universities. The meetings addressed key strategic priorities, including higher education governance, digital education, intercultural dialogue, graduate employability, education during crises, and sustainable development. Supporting Student Activities and Implementing Ministerial Directives Regarding student engagement, the University President directed the relevant departments to support cultural and scientific activities, encourage student participation in competitions and university initiatives, and expedite the formation of student councils. These measures aim to strengthen student engagement and develop leadership, creativity, and communication skills. The Council also emphasized the implementation of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's directive concerning the recognition of the 2025–2026 academic year as a non-failure year for students covered by the relevant student registration cancellation provisions, in accordance with the applicable regulations and ministerial instructions. Developing Academic Programmes and Enhancing Student Recruitment As part of the University's academic development agenda, the Council stressed the importance of establishing joint educational programmes with international universities, developing existing curricula, and implementing the requirements and recommendations of expert committees. These efforts aim to maintain academic standards, ensure educational quality, and align academic programmes with scientific advancements and labour market needs. The Council also directed the intensification of media and promotional campaigns to introduce prospective students and their parents to the University's newly established departments, academic specializations, and distinguished educational services. Particular emphasis was placed on highlighting the University's achievements and international rankings to raise awareness of available educational opportunities and facilitate admission and registration procedures. The meeting reflects Al-Mustaqbal University's commitment to implementing strategic plans and ministerial directives, strengthening academic excellence and international engagement, and fostering a university environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Through these ongoing efforts, the University continues to advance educational quality and pursue its strategic objectives of leadership and excellence at both national and international levels. Al-Mustaqbal University The First University in Iraq