Today, the activities of the second edition of the Iraqi Universities Debate World Cup were launched at Karbala University, with the participation of students from Karbala University and private universities in the province.
The event, organized by the International Academy for Leadership and Development (IALD) in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, was attended by the university’s Vice Presidents for Administrative and Scientific Affairs, Professor Dr. Jassim Al-Barak and Professor Dr. Haider Mohammad.
Professor Dr. Haider Mohammad, the Vice President for Scientific Affairs, stated that “the World Cup is a distinguished platform to promote constructive dialogue, instill the values of intellectual discussion, and create a generation aware of their society’s issues and capable of expressing their opinions objectively.” He added that “the World Cup highlights the youth’s skills in research and analysis and teaches them to listen and respect different viewpoints.”
He affirmed Karbala University’s commitment to its pivotal role in preparing future leaders, encouraging students to develop their intellectual and leadership skills, and believing in the importance of dialogue as a means for positive change.
Dr. Mohammad Abdul Aziz, Head of the Rehabilitation, Employment, and Follow-up Division at Karbala University, revealed that “ten private universities from Karbala province are participating in this year’s World Cup.” He pointed out that the first stage of the competition will be among students from Karbala province universities, after which the qualifiers will participate in competitions at the national level in Iraq, and the finalists will conclude their competitions in Qatar, where the competition will be at the Arab world level.
Muath Salem Abdul Rahman, President of the International Academy for Leadership and Development, explained that “the academy aims, through organizing this World Cup, to empower Iraqi students to face challenges.” He noted that the debates represent an opportunity to exchange opinions, develop persuasion skills, and promote a culture of constructive dialogue. It is a free space to discover talents and enhance the spirit of cooperation and understanding among the nation’s youth.
The International Academy for Leadership and Development (IALD) is an international institution specializing in education and youth development in various fields. It collaborates with several Iraqi ministries, including the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in various aspects.