Administrative Divisions Department of Cultural Relations
In line with its ongoing efforts to strengthen academic cooperation and engage with leading university experiences across the Arab world, Al-Mustaqbal University has signed a scientific and academic cooperation agreement with Ibn Tofail University of Morocco. The agreement was formalized on the sidelines of the Global Sustainable Development Congress (GSDC 2025), organized by Times Higher Education in Istanbul, Turkey. The agreement aims to foster collaboration between the two institutions across several key areas, including the exchange of academic and research expertise, joint programs in sustainability, renewable energy, and digital transformation, as well as support for student and faculty mobility, cross-border research and development projects, joint publications, and the organization of international conferences and academic events. Al-Mustaqbal University was represented at the signing ceremony by its official delegation to the conference, led by Prof. Azher Mohsen Abd, Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies. The meeting was held in a productive academic atmosphere that reflected the deep cultural and scientific ties between Iraq and Morocco, and highlighted the shared commitment of both institutions to establishing a meaningful partnership in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the advancement of higher education in the Arab world. Representatives from both universities emphasized that the agreement marks the beginning of a long-term strategic collaboration that will open up new opportunities for students, researchers, and academic institutions in both countries. This step aligns with Al-Mustaqbal University’s strategic vision of building an effective network of regional and international partnerships, enabling the exchange of knowledge and resources, and reinforcing its global academic presence as an institution with a genuine developmental impact.
Al-Mustaqbal University hosted the National Conference on the Digital Transformation and Automation Project spearheaded by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The event was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Naeem Al-Aboudi, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and brought together a wide array of participants including presidents of public and private universities, vice-presidents, deans, faculty members, and students. Representing the Minister, Dr. Haider Abdul Dhahad, Deputy Minister for Scientific Research Affairs, delivered the opening remarks. He emphasized that digital transformation is now a national and strategic necessity to keep pace with global advancements in education, administration, and technology. Dr. Abdul Dhahad highlighted the project’s potential to enhance institutional, administrative, academic, and student performance by streamlining processes, saving time and effort, and promoting transparency and service quality. He also stressed the critical role universities play in the success of this national initiative, noting that higher education institutions are drivers of knowledge production and development, and are uniquely positioned to harness technology for resource management and institutional excellence. In his remarks on behalf of Al-Mustaqbal University, Dr. Mudhafar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Director of Academic and Scientific Supervision, welcomed attendees and conveyed the greetings of the University President, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi. He expressed the university’s pride in hosting such a significant event that highlights a pivotal area in the development of higher education in Iraq. Dr. Al-Zuhairi noted that digital transformation is not merely a technical process, but a paradigm shift in the university’s operational philosophy. It aims to establish a smart system capable of adapting to global changes, improving efficiency, and fostering effective communication among students, researchers, and faculty. He further explained that digital transformation is a key gateway to good governance, enhanced educational quality, and internationalization. He added that Al-Mustaqbal University strongly believes in the importance of this transformation and has already launched several digital initiatives across administrative, academic, and service sectors. The university continues to upgrade its digital infrastructure and expand its strategic partnerships in alignment with the demands of the coming era. The conference featured a detailed presentation by Dr. Amir Thuwaini, Director of the IT Department at the Ministry, who outlined the project’s components, implementation phases, and the key challenges and opportunities it presents. One of the conference highlights was the distribution of unified electronic university ID cards to a number of Al-Mustaqbal University students. This initiative, a direct outcome of the national digital transformation project, was launched in a live demonstration by the Deputy Minister, showcasing electronic charging, purchasing, and payment capabilities—an initiative warmly welcomed by attendees. The conference concluded with expressions of appreciation for Al-Mustaqbal University’s excellent hospitality and organization. Participants affirmed that the conference marks a significant milestone in the advancement of smart universities and the broader development of Iraqi higher education, and called for sustained efforts to expand digital transformation across all university operations nationwide. At the conclusion of the conference, attendees expressed their appreciation to Al-Mustaqbal University for its warm hospitality and excellent organization. They affirmed that the event represents a significant step in the ongoing development of higher education in Iraq and the realization of smart universities. The participants also called for continued efforts to expand the scope of digital transformation to encompass all aspects of university operations across the country.
As part of its ongoing participation in the Global Sustainable Development Congress (GSDC 2025), organized by Times Higher Education, the delegation of University of Al-Mustaqbal continued its dynamic and impactful presence during the second day of the congress, held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from June 16 to 19, 2025. The day commenced with an inspiring “Wellness Zone” session hosted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong, followed by a series of high-level official opening speeches. Distinguished government officials and policy leaders addressed the audience, including the Turkish Deputy Minister of Industry and Technology, the Minister of Education of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and the President of the Turkish Council of Higher Education. Their speeches emphasized the importance of aligning higher education policies with green growth agendas and the recommendations of COP29, aiming to strengthen the integration between education and environmental policy. The University’s delegation also took part in the keynote session titled “Türkiye’s Vision for Education for a Sustainable Future”, delivered by the President of the Council of Higher Education in Türkiye. The session highlighted national strategies to enhance the role of universities in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of the major highlights of the day was the delegation’s attendance at the exclusive live announcement of the THE Impact Rankings 2025—a premier global ranking that evaluates universities based on their performance in achieving the SDGs. This session provided valuable insights into the latest global trends and benchmarks in university ranking strategies. The delegation also engaged in a wide range of specialized sessions, addressing topics such as “Universities as Hubs for Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship,” “The Digital Future of Agriculture and Animal Health,” and “Tackling Global Health Challenges in Light of the Diabetes Pandemic.” In addition, the team participated in open discussion panels on transnational education, development equity, and the role of international collaboration in supporting green innovation. This active participation reflects the university’s strategic vision to enhance its global presence and affirm its role as a leading academic institution committed to sustainable development and shaping the future of higher education at both regional and international levels.
University of Al-Mustaqbal has achieved a historic and groundbreaking milestone by ranking first globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings under Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy for All). The announcement was made today, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, during the official ceremony held in Istanbul as part of the Times Higher Education’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Impact Rankings. This global achievement marks the first time an Arab university has led in this SDG and stands as a historic first for Iraq in the history of global university rankings. In addition to this exceptional ranking in SDG 7, University of Al-Mustaqbal also secured the number one position in Iraq, and was ranked in the 200–300 band globally across all SDGs—representing the highest placement ever achieved by an Iraqi university in the Times Impact Rankings for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The official announcement of the full rankings will take place tomorrow during the 2025 SDG Universities Summit, hosted by Times Higher Education. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, President of University of Al-Mustaqbal, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Azher Mohsen Abd, Dean of the College of Engineering and Technologies and Head of the Energy Axis, for their leadership and commitment to sustainable innovation. This outstanding achievement is a testament to the hard work of our academic and administrative teams, students, and everyone who contributed to this global success. Congratulations to the entire University of Al-Mustaqbal community!
On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Times Higher Education (THE) officially announced the results of the Impact Rankings 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious university rankings focused on evaluating higher education institutions’ performance in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In a landmark achievement, University of Al-Mustaqbal was ranked first among all Iraqi universities—both public and private—solidifying its position as a national leader in sustainable development and academic excellence. This accomplishment reinforces the university’s growing reputation regionally and internationally as a forward-thinking institution dedicated to transformative, sustainable progress. Globally, University of Al-Mustaqbal was placed within the 201–300 band out of 2,526 universities representing 130 countries across all continents—a record-breaking level of competition for this year’s edition. The university stood out with exceptional performance in several SDGs, most notably achieving Rank 1 Worldwide in SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, outperforming prestigious institutions from Europe, the Americas, and Asia. This historic result demonstrates the significant impact Iraqi universities can have on critical global challenges, particularly in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. In addition to SDG 7, the university earned high placements in several other SDGs: • SDG 1 (No Poverty): 1st in Iraq | 101–200 globally • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): 2nd in Iraq | 101–200 globally • SDG 4 (Quality Education): 1st in Iraq | 201–300 globally • SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): 1st in Iraq | 60th globally • SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): 1st in Iraq and 1st globally • SDG 13 (Climate Action): 1st in Iraq | 201–300 globally • SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions): 1st in Iraq | 101–200 globally This remarkable success is the result of a clear strategic vision that placed sustainable development at the core of the university’s mission. University of Al-Mustaqbal has effectively aligned its academic, administrative, and operational systems with global sustainability standards, while actively involving its academic community and students in high-impact initiatives addressing all dimensions of sustainable development. Commenting on the achievement, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, President of University of Al-Mustaqbal, stated: “We are proud of this historic achievement, which confirms that our university is confidently moving toward global recognition. University of Al-Mustaqbal is no longer just a local academic institution—it has become a model for excellence in sustainable development and quality education. We have successfully built an integrated environment that fosters creativity, drives innovation, and contributes to knowledge production aimed at solving both local and global challenges. This ranking reflects the tremendous efforts of our faculty, researchers, students, and administrative teams.” This milestone marks a turning point in the university’s journey, highlighting its growing influence both locally and globally. It confirms the university’s emergence as a key player in sustainable education in the Middle East and underscores its commitment to integrating education, research, and community service. Through strong international partnerships with leading universities and research centers, University of Al-Mustaqbal is well-positioned to achieve even greater innovation and progress in the years to come.
As part of its strategic vision to strengthen its international academic presence and reaffirm its deep commitment to sustainable development, Future University participated in the Global Sustainable Development Congress (GSDC 2025), organized by Times Higher Education—one of the world’s most trusted authorities in higher education rankings. The prestigious event was held in Istanbul, Turkey, from June 16 to 19, 2025. This high-profile global forum serves as a platform to align higher education with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It brought together leading universities, academic institutions from across continents, as well as high-level representatives from ministries of education, international organizations, and UN-led sustainability initiatives. The opening day featured a rich agenda of expert-led sessions addressing strategic issues related to the future of higher education. The discussions included university leaders, ranking and quality assurance specialists, researchers in artificial intelligence, biomedicine, and environmental science, policy consultants, UN representatives, and emerging youth leaders in sustainability. Key topics included redefining the role of education in promoting social justice, integrating SDGs into university policies, the future of smart classrooms, the intersection of education, research, and industry, the role of AI in environmental protection, and the current challenges facing higher education amid global crises. The congress also saw the launch of a UN report on the state of sustainability in higher education institutions across the MENA region, along with the opening of a global exhibition showcasing innovative practices in green transformation and sustainable university governance. Future University was represented by an official delegation of specialists in global rankings and quality assurance. The participation aligns with the university’s ongoing efforts to enhance its international competitiveness, engage with leading global experiences, and localize best practices in education, research, and sustainable partnerships. This participation underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to its societal and developmental role and reflects its proactive approach in shaping the future of higher education through active involvement in international dialogue—solidifying its status as a pioneering academic institution both regionally and globally.
In alignment with the directives of Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of AL-Mustaqbal University, to strengthen international partnerships through engagement with leading global universities and relevant international organizations and alliances in higher education, AL-Mustaqbal University participated in the 6th regular virtual meeting of the EURAS Board of Directors. The meeting was held via videoconference and chaired by Prof. Dr. Mustafa Aydın, President of Istanbul Aydın University and Chairman of the EURAS Board, with the participation of several university presidents and representatives from member institutions. AL-Mustaqbal University was represented by Prof. Dr. Mudhaffar Sadiq Al-Zuheiri, on behalf of University President Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, as a member of the EURAS Board of Directors, along with Dr. Sameer Ibrahim Badrawi, Director of the International Relations Department at the university presidency. The meeting agenda included a review of the outcomes of the previous session and discussions on enhancing collaboration among member institutions. Particular focus was given to the activities of specialized committees and platforms, especially in the areas of scientific research, sustainability, international partnerships, and student affairs. The recently launched “NextGen Students” platform was also highlighted, with AL-Mustaqbal University’s representative selected as one of nine core team members overseeing its development—an honor reflecting the university’s active role within the EURAS network of over 150 institutions. During the meeting, Prof. Al-Zuheiri conveyed the greetings of Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi to the participants and affirmed AL-Mustaqbal University’s active involvement in the upcoming Sustainable Development Congress 2025, scheduled to take place in Istanbul in mid-June. He also emphasized the continued engagement of AL-Mustaqbal University students participating in the NextGen Platform, where they are exchanging experiences with peers from fellow EURAS member universities worldwide. The EURAS Chairman commended AL-Mustaqbal University for its distinguished contributions and consistent engagement with the Union’s initiatives, noting its dynamic participation and valuable input. Furthermore, the Chairman welcomed AL-Mustaqbal University’s offer to host the EURIE Academy 2025, which is planned for early in the next academic year, highlighting the university’s growing role in the Union’s strategic agenda. Looking ahead, the meeting underscored the Union’s plans to involve member universities in several major international projects funded by the European Union and the World Bank, focusing on sustainable development and addressing regional and global challenges—particularly those concerning the Eastern Mediterranean region.
AL-Mustaqbal University has achieved a new milestone in high-impact scientific publishing. The University President, Professor Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, announced that the university has secured the first place among all private universities in Iraq in terms of research output, and second place nationally, following the University of Baghdad, in the number of publications in top-tier Q1 journals. According to the latest data released by Scopus, which included publication statistics from over 200 Iraqi universities and research institutions, AL-Mustaqbal University published 2,131 Q1 papers between 2017 and 2025. This places it second only to the University of Baghdad, which recorded 2,785 Q1 publications, while the University of Technology came third, followed by the universities of Sulaymaniyah, Basrah, and Al-Mustansiriya. In addition, AL-Mustaqbal University ranked first among private universities in terms of total research output, with 5,181 papers indexed in the Scopus database. The university also achieved significant recognition in terms of scholarly impact. According to the SciVal analytics platform, AL-Mustaqbal University received 45,382 citations and achieved a Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) score of 1.52, indicating that its research is cited 52% more than the global average in its respective fields. This metric reflects not only the quality of the university’s research but also the strength of its international research collaborations. The university administration attributes these achievements to its strategic focus on fostering a robust and supportive research environment. This includes providing faculty members with the necessary resources and incentives to produce high-quality research that is published in Q1 and Q2 journals, thereby enhancing the standing of higher education in Iraq and aligning with the Ministry of Higher Education’s vision for academic excellence. In a statement to the university’s media office, Professor Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi expressed his appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the university’s faculty and researchers, emphasizing that such accomplishments are the result of their commitment and scholarly excellence. He reaffirmed the university’s ongoing support for all initiatives aimed at elevating its academic reputation—especially in the field of scientific research.