President of Al-Mustaqbal University Attends Opening of the Third Iraq Education Conference Al-Mustaqbal University, represented by its President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, participated in the opening ceremony of the third edition of the Iraq Education Conference, which commenced on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, under the patronage and in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hassani. Held under the theme “From Education to Development: Global Partnerships and Universities Shaping the Future,” the conference brought together prominent parliamentary, governmental, academic, and international figures, including the Chair and members of the Parliamentary Education Committee, the Head of the Board of Advisors, several ministers and officials, as well as leading academics, experts, and specialists. In his opening address, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research highlighted the conference’s role as a key platform for exchanging expertise, strengthening institutional cooperation, and establishing strategic partnerships that contribute to advancing higher education and enhancing the standing of Iraqi universities at regional and international levels. The Minister also emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to promoting the concept of the “productive university” by supporting applied scientific research, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, strengthening partnerships with the public and private sectors, and developing technology incubators. These initiatives aim to align educational outcomes with labor market needs and the requirements of sustainable development. The opening ceremony also featured keynote speeches by Mr. Jim Burkey, President of Saint Leo University in the United States, and Dr. Salman Al-Rawaf, Director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre with Imperial College London. Their contributions addressed prospects for educational development and the advancement of academic and institutional cooperation. On the sidelines of the conference, the Minister inaugurated the Iraqi Higher Education Exhibition, which featured broad participation from Iraqi, Arab, and international universities. The exhibition aims to explore academic cooperation opportunities, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and expand institutional and scientific partnerships. The conference continues over two days, featuring scientific sessions and specialized discussions on key topics, including vocational and technical education, the internationalization of education and cross-border learning, research aligned with national priorities, smart digital transformation, sustainability and the environment, as well as investment and strategic partnerships. Al-Mustaqbal University’s participation in this prominent academic event reflects its commitment to keeping pace with contemporary developments in higher education, strengthening its presence at academic and institutional forums, and engaging with international experiences. These efforts support the continuous improvement of educational quality, scientific research, and opportunities for academic collaboration. Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First Among Private Universities in Iraq