Administrative Divisions Department of Cultural Relations
As part of efforts to strengthen academic cooperation and expand Iraqi universities’ engagement with European Union programmes, the EU Delegation in Iraq, in cooperation with the Department of International and Arab Organizations at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, held a specialized training workshop at Al-Mustaqbal University on institutional capacity building and maximizing opportunities offered by Erasmus+, with the participation of public and private universities from the Middle Euphrates region. The workshop was attended by Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University; Prof. Dr. Muwaffaq Sajit, Director of the Department of International and Arab Organizations at the Ministry; Ms. Asmaa Al-Smadi, Project Manager at the Erasmus+ National Office in Jordan; as well as cultural relations directors, Erasmus+ coordinators, and university deans and department heads. The opening address, delivered on behalf of the University by Prof. Dr. Mudhaffar Sadiq Al-Zuhairy, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in advancing education, research, and institutional capacity, while international programmes create broader opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty. Prof. Dr. Al-Zuhairy highlighted the University’s growing engagement with EU programmes and international projects, noting its recent success in securing a Jean Monnet grant under Erasmus+, marking another step towards strengthening its European and international academic engagement. Prof. Dr. Muwaffaq Sajit highlighted the workshop’s role in advancing the internationalization of Iraqi higher education, introducing Erasmus+ funding opportunities and application mechanisms, and enabling universities to develop competitive projects and expand international academic and research cooperation. In a statement to the University Media Office, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi said that hosting the workshop reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to strengthening its international presence, building effective academic partnerships, and fostering a culture of international projects that enhances staff capacities and opens new avenues for scientific and research cooperation. Held over three days, the workshop focuses on Erasmus+ applications, project development, funding opportunities, knowledge exchange, and building institutional networks capable of transforming international cooperation into practical projects and programmes. The workshop reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s continued commitment to international partnerships and its vision of using global engagement to advance academic and institutional capacities and strengthen the presence of Iraqi universities in the international academic community. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
A delegation from the College of Science at Al-Mustaqbal University, represented by the Department of Forensic Science, has arrived at Razi University in Kermanshah, the Islamic Republic of Iran, to participate in a specialized professional development course in the field of forensic science. The course is scheduled to take place from 18 to 23 September 2026, with lectures and field-based training activities being conducted from 19 to 21 September 2026. The delegation comprises 16 students from the Department of Forensic Science, under the supervision and leadership of Prof. Dr. Dhargham Ali Abbas, Head of the Department of Forensic Science, and Dr. Maytham Nabeel Miqdad, Lecturer, Rapporteur of the Department of Intelligent Medical Systems, and Academic Coordinator. This participation comes within the framework of the directives of the Presidency of Al-Mustaqbal University aimed at enhancing students’ practical skills and academic experience and providing specialized training opportunities that contribute to developing their scientific capabilities and bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications in fields related to their academic specializations. The training course comprises 12 training hours delivered through six intensive lectures and focuses on the specialized topic: “From the Crime Scene to the Laboratory: Employing Biological Sciences in Forensic Analysis” The academic programme includes advanced practical training in the latest techniques of biological analysis, DNA testing, and methods of handling and analyzing forensic evidence. It also features field and educational visits designed to complement and support the training programme. This participation reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to expanding opportunities for academic cooperation and professional training while strengthening students’ practical expertise in line with the latest scientific and technological developments in the fields of forensic science and biological sciences. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
In the presence of Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, the University held a virtual meeting with representatives of the Iraqi Cultural Attaché and OHLA school , a global strategic partner for TOEFL/ETS, to explore cooperation in developing students’ and graduates’ language and academic skills and designing high-quality training programs tailored to their academic and professional needs. The meeting was attended by Prof. Dr. Mudhaffar Sadiq Al-Zuhairy, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision at Al-Mustaqbal University, alongside representatives of the Iraqi Cultural Attaché and OHLA, with the participation of officials responsible for training programs and academic development from the University Presidency and the Continuing Education Center. During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi emphasized that the partnership aims to equip students and graduates with English language skills that enhance their academic and professional opportunities. He noted that the training programs will be tailored to specific needs, offering diverse pathways ranging from TOEFL preparation to developing English communication skills for business purposes, as well as preparing students for further study at international universities. The meeting also discussed mechanisms for cooperation between Al-Mustaqbal University and OHLA to provide flexible, specialized training programs aligned with participants’ levels and objectives, while leveraging international expertise to develop English language skills in accordance with globally recognized standards. This collaboration reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to expanding its international partnerships and strengthening the readiness of its students and graduates to engage in global academic and professional environments, in line with its vision of delivering high-quality education that responds to future needs and labor market demands. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
As part of its commitment to advancing academic and scientific performance, Al-Mustaqbal University held a meeting chaired by Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, with a number of directors of departments and units at the University Presidency, in the presence of Prof.Dr. Mudhaffar Sadeq Al-Zuhairy, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision. The meeting focused on a comprehensive review of key academic and scientific files and setting priorities for the next phase. The meeting assessed performance and progress across several strategic areas, emphasizing data-driven analysis and performance indicators to support decision-making and strengthen the University’s competitiveness locally and internationally. The President directed the preparation of periodic analytical reports featuring clear indicators to monitor performance, particularly in local and international academic partnerships, research activity and high-quality scholarly publishing, university rankings, capacity-building programs, and initiatives to equip students and graduates with the skills required by the labour market. He also stressed the importance of maximizing the impact of university partnerships by transforming agreements and memoranda of understanding into tangible programs and projects, while expanding applied research that addresses real-world challenges and contributes to sustainable development. The meeting further highlighted the need to activate the Science and Technology Parks Department and enhance its role as a platform for innovation, applied research, and entrepreneurship, while strengthening cooperation with the public and private sectors to translate knowledge and research outcomes into economic and societal value. This meeting reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to building an integrated institutional framework based on proactive planning, continuous performance measurement, and evidence-based analysis, thereby enhancing quality, improving outcomes, and strengthening the University’s growing presence locally and internationally. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
Al-Mustaqbal University continues its distinguished participation in the 27th Baghdad International Book Fair, with its pavilion attracting strong interest from visitors across Iraqi society. The University marks its participation as the Fair’s Gold Sponsor for the fourth consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to supporting culture, knowledge, and Iraq’s vibrant cultural landscape. This presence reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to strengthening connections with writers, intellectuals, publishers, and cultural institutions, while reinforcing its role as an active partner in advancing knowledge and creativity. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
As part of Al-Mustaqbal University’s efforts to expand its network of academic and scientific partnerships and strengthen its engagement with the wider higher education community, and under the guidance of University President Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, a delegation from Al-Mustaqbal University visited the American University of Baghdad in response to an official invitation, with the aim of exploring avenues for collaboration and opening new pathways toward a sustainable academic and scientific partnership between the two institutions. The delegation was headed by Prof. Dr. Mudhaffar Sadeq Al-Zuhairy, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, and included several directors of departments and centers at the University Presidency. The delegation was received by Mr. Ziad Shaaban, CEO of the Center of Excellence for Innovation and Development, Prof. Dr. Khalil Ibrahim Mahmoud, University advisor , and a number of university officials and academics. During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Al-Zuhairy delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting Al-Mustaqbal University’s academic and scientific development, key milestones, and major achievements in scientific research, local and international rankings, and global academic partnerships. He also outlined the university’s future directions in advancing its educational and research environment and strengthening engagement with leading academic institutions. The American University of Baghdad, in turn, provided an overview of its vision, academic programs, and educational experience. This was followed by extensive discussions on areas of mutual interest, particularly in the academic, scientific, and research fields, with the aim of facilitating knowledge and expertise exchange and creating meaningful opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to maintain ongoing communication and coordination to further explore areas of collaboration and finalize the framework of the prospective partnership, paving the way for the implementation of joint programs and initiatives that promote academic and research integration and establish a sustainable partnership with tangible impact on education, scientific research, and community service. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, participated in the EAIE–IAU Internationalisation Leadership Dialogue, held on 8 September 2026 at The Sir Jim McDonald Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, United Kingdom. The high-level dialogue addressed key strategies for internationalisation in higher education amid current global challenges, providing a platform for university presidents and higher education leaders from around the world to exchange experiences, perspectives, and strategic practices. Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi’s participation came at the invitation of the International Association of Universities (IAU) and the European Association for International Education (EAIE), with the aim of strengthening opportunities for international academic cooperation and facilitating the exchange of strategic expertise among higher education leaders worldwide. The event commenced with welcoming remarks from the host institution, the University of Strathclyde, followed by addresses delivered by Dr. Hilligje van’t Land, Secretary General of the International Association of Universities (IAU), and Mr. Mervyn Jones Baker, Executive Director of the European Association for International Education (EAIE). The keynote session, entitled “Leading Internationalisation in Turbulent Times,” was delivered by Sir Anton Muscatelli, President of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. His presentation explored a range of advanced strategic themes, including the VUCA Prime leadership model and approaches to managing higher education institutions in volatile and rapidly changing environments through a focus on Vision, Understanding, Clarity, and Agility. The keynote also highlighted successful models and strategies for developing equitable, sustainable, and mutually beneficial partnerships among universities. In addition, the dialogue featured an analysis of internationalisation markets, together with insights drawn from recent data and statistics on global trends in international student mobility and recruitment. During the event, Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi took part in a series of dialogue sessions and roundtable discussions addressing the future of international partnerships. Discussions focused on mechanisms for selecting strategic partners, developing joint academic programmes, strengthening research collaboration, and promoting the principle of reciprocity in international higher education partnerships. The dialogue further explored ways of reimagining internationalisation, including the integration of internationalisation into curricula, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in learning and academic mobility, and the potential of virtual exchange as a modern and sustainable approach to international education. The participation also included a number of bilateral and informal meetings between the President of Al-Mustaqbal University and leaders of participating academic institutions. Among these was a meeting with Dr. Hilligje van’t Land, Secretary General of the International Association of Universities (IAU), during which Prof. Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi presented her with a commemorative gift representing Iraq’s rich heritage and civilisation. The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore prospects for future academic and research partnerships. These engagements were complemented by meetings with leaders and representatives of participating academic institutions, contributing to the expansion of Al-Mustaqbal University’s international academic network and the exploration of new avenues for cooperation. This participation reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s continued commitment to advancing its strategic plans, keeping pace with global developments in higher education leadership and management, strengthening international academic partnerships, and expanding its network of international relations. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals
As part of its efforts to strengthen international academic and research collaboration, Al-Mustaqbal University, represented by its President, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, paid an official visit to the University of Reading in the United Kingdom. The delegation was accompanied by Professor Dr. Qusay Al-Ahmadi, the Iraqi Cultural Attaché to the United Kingdom, and included Assistant Professor Dr. Ameen Kitab, Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs at the College of Engineering Technologies at Al-Mustaqbal University. The Iraqi delegation was received by representatives of the University of Reading, including: • Claire Ballard, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, International Student Recruitment. • Professor Emmanuel A. Essah, Head of the Environmental Engineering School, Professor of Sustainable Technologies and Energy Resilience, and Programme Director of the MSc Sustainable Built Environment Management at the School of Built Environment. • Professor Irem Dikmen Toker, Professor of Construction Engineering and Management at the School of Built Environment. During the visit, the two sides held extensive discussions on prospects for scientific and research cooperation, with particular emphasis on exploring the establishment of a joint Master’s programme in Renewable Energy and Sustainability. Assistant Professor Dr. Ameen Kitab delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the vision of Al-Mustaqbal University and its College of Engineering Technologies. The presentation highlighted the University’s advanced academic and research capabilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and climate change. It also showcased the University’s outstanding global achievement of ranking first in the world for Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7): Affordable and Clean Energy. For his part, Professor Emmanuel A. Essah commended the content of the presentation, expressing his appreciation for Al-Mustaqbal University’s exceptional achievements and advanced capabilities in the areas of sustainability, scientific research, and addressing the challenges of climate change. The visit culminated in the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. The MoU includes a number of key areas of cooperation, notably: 1. Academic and Research Cooperation: Strengthening joint research projects and scholarly publications, as well as organising academic conferences, seminars, and scientific events. 2. Exchange of Academic Staff and Researchers: Supporting academic exchange programmes for faculty members and postgraduate students to enhance their professional skills, knowledge, and expertise. 3. Academic Facilitation and Student Recruitment: Facilitating the admission of qualified students from Al-Mustaqbal University to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at the University of Reading. 4. Development of Educational Programmes: Exploring opportunities to develop joint academic programmes and student exchange initiatives. 5. Exchange of Academic Resources and Publications: Promoting the exchange of academic materials, publications, and scholarly resources between the two institutions. 6. Cultural and Knowledge Exchange: Providing opportunities for intellectual, cultural, and academic development for faculty members, staff, and students of both institutions. 7. Summer Schools and Short Courses: Creating opportunities for participation in international summer schools and advanced short-term training programmes. This achievement forms part of Al-Mustaqbal University’s strategic commitment to strengthening its engagement with leading international academic institutions. It further reflects the University’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of higher education and scientific research in Iraq, while expanding opportunities for international academic collaboration in areas of strategic importance, particularly renewable energy and sustainability. #Al-Mustaqbal_University #Ranked_first_among_private_universities_in_Iraq #Goal_17_Partnerships_for_the_Goals