The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi, affirmed Iraq’s readiness and preparedness, along with its institutions, to host the twentieth session of the Conference of Higher Education Ministers in the Arab World.
This statement was made during his official speech at the 19th Conference of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministers in the Arab World, hosted by the United Arab Emirates in cooperation with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO).
Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi appreciated the conference’s recommendations, which resulted in the approval of Iraq’s request to host the twentieth session of the Conference of Higher Education Ministers in Baghdad in 2026. He explained that Iraq and its specialized academic institutions are ready and prepared to host the twentieth edition, emphasizing the Iraqi government’s commitment to keeping up with developments in the Arab and global higher education and scientific research fields, enhancing academic methodologies, and supporting its adopted strategies.
The Minister of Education reiterated his praise for the decision of the Council of the Union of Arab Scientific Research Councils, which culminated in the historic decision to return the union to its main headquarters in Baghdad. He also highlighted the positive interaction of the Arab Universities Union with the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research’s proposal to establish an Arab Higher Education Area, similar to the European Union’s experience.
He continued that the ongoing and effective integration between Arab institutions and universities and their academic centers would reduce the gap between Arab education spaces and open the door for interaction with reputable educational environments in many important global capitals.
The 19th Conference of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministers in the Arab World, held in Abu Dhabi from November 27-28, includes participation from ministers and experts from twenty-one countries and eight Arab and regional organizations. The conference, titled “A Flexible Higher Education System Adapting to Rapid Global Developments,” resulted in the approval to host the twentieth edition in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, in 2026.
