At the Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education in Abu Dhabi, Iraq’s Minister of Higher Education Commends the Approval to Host the 20th Edition in Baghdad

Iraq’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi, affirmed Iraq’s readiness and preparedness, along with its institutions, to host the 20th session of the Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education in Baghdad in 2026.

This announcement was made during his official address at the 19th Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research, hosted by the United Arab Emirates in collaboration with the Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO).

Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi praised the conference’s recommendations, including the approval of Iraq’s request to host the 20th session. He highlighted Iraq’s commitment to aligning with the latest developments in higher education and scientific research at both Arab and global levels, emphasizing the Iraqi government’s dedication to advancing academic methodologies and strengthening strategic frameworks in this field.

The Minister also lauded the historic decision by the Council of the Arab Union of Scientific Research Councils to relocate its headquarters back to Baghdad. Furthermore, he commended the positive engagement of the Association of Arab Universities with Iraq’s proposal to establish an Arab Higher Education Zone, inspired by the European Union’s model.

Dr. Al-Aboudi emphasized the importance of continuous and effective collaboration between Arab institutions and universities, noting its role in bridging gaps in the Arab education landscape and enhancing integration with prominent educational systems worldwide.

The 19th Conference of Arab Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research, held in Abu Dhabi from November 27 to 28, 2024, brought together ministers and experts from 21 countries and eight Arab and regional organizations. Under the theme “A Flexible Higher Education System Adapting to Rapid Global Changes,” the conference concluded with the approval for Baghdad to host the 20th edition in 2026.

Media and Government Communications Department
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research