Al-Mustaqbal University launched a new academic cooperation initiative with the British Council on the sidelines of the Fifth Meeting of the UK–Iraq Academic Bridge Initiative, hosted by the University on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, as part of its ongoing commitment to expanding international partnerships and advancing the internationalization of higher education. The initiative was announced during a meeting between Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdy, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, and Dr. Richard Sunderland, Country Director of the British Council in Iraq, in the presence of Professor Dr. Mudhafar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Academic Supervisor of the University. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and discussing practical mechanisms for implementing joint initiatives that enhance academic quality and educational excellence. Discussions focused on expanding collaboration with leading universities and higher education institutions in the United Kingdom, activating academic and cultural exchange programs, and further developing the University's English Language Centers in accordance with the international standards endorsed by the British Council. These efforts aim to strengthen the linguistic, research, and professional competencies of both students and academic staff. The meeting also highlighted the importance of establishing sustainable academic partnerships, implementing professional development and capacity-building programs, and promoting the adoption of international best practices in higher education, in line with Al-Mustaqbal University's strategic vision for global engagement. At the conclusion of the meeting, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdy presented the University's Shield of Appreciation to Dr. Richard Sunderland in recognition of the British Council's continued support for higher education and international academic cooperation, reflecting the strong relationship between both institutions and their shared commitment to expanding future collaboration. This initiative represents another significant step in Al-Mustaqbal University's strategy to strengthen its global presence, enhance academic programs, and establish strategic partnerships with leading international institutions, while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Al-Mustaqbal University – the first university in Iraq.
  SDG17