Al-Mustaqbal University continued its active academic presence at the third edition of the Iraq Education Conference 2026, participating in the activities of the conference’s second and final day, hosted by the University of Baghdad under the theme: “From Education to Development: Global Partnerships and Universities Shaping the Future.” The conference brought together distinguished academic leaders, official representatives, and delegates from local and international universities and educational institutions. The delegation from Al-Mustaqbal University was headed by the University President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, accompanied by the University Advisor, Prof. Dr. Mohsen Al-Furaiji; Director of Academic Supervision, Prof. Dr. Muzaffar Al-Zuhairi; Dean of the College of Engineering, Asst. Prof. Dr. Ali Shaker; along with a number of academic staff and university personnel. International Meetings to Strengthen Academic Cooperation On the sidelines of the conference, the University delegation held a series of meetings with representatives of several participating American universities and academic institutions, including the University of Colorado, the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), and the OHLA Language Institute. These meetings aimed to explore opportunities for cooperation and expand the scope of academic and scientific partnerships. The delegation also met with the Cultural Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, continuing discussions on mechanisms for developing academic cooperation, promoting scientific exchange, and exploring opportunities for institutional partnerships that support Al-Mustaqbal University’s educational and research activities. Dialogue Session on the Future of Higher Education in Iraq The second day’s programme also featured a dialogue session chaired by Prof. Dr. Haider Abd Dahad, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research for Scientific Affairs, with the participation of His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hassani, and His Excellency the Minister of Planning, Dr. Qutaiba Ghazi. During the session, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to strengthen university autonomy and improve the educational and research environment in support of the transition towards the concept of the “productive university.” He also stressed the need for coordination with the Ministry of Planning to align admission policies and higher education outcomes with labour market requirements and Iraq’s development needs. For his part, the Minister of Planning called for a comprehensive assessment of in-demand academic specializations and a review of strategic plans and the geographical distribution of universities. These measures aim to achieve a balance between educational outcomes and the needs of productive sectors, while supporting effective planning for the future of education and development. A Strategic Vision for Sustainable Global Partnerships Al-Mustaqbal University’s participation in the conference and its accompanying international academic meetings forms part of its strategic direction to strengthen the internationalization of higher education, develop academic curricula, and expand cooperation with global universities and scientific institutions. These efforts aim to facilitate the exchange of expertise and knowledge, enhance the quality of education and scientific research, and support the requirements of sustainable development in Iraq. This participation reaffirms Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to expanding its presence in international academic forums and capitalizing on opportunities for cooperation and partnership to advance its educational and research mission. It also reflects the University’s dedication to preparing graduates equipped to keep pace with scientific developments and meet labor market demands. Al-Mustaqbal University is the No. 1 university in Iraq.