PM Meets University Presidents and Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Leadership Staff

Baghdad-INA   
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani met today, Prime with several university presidents and leadership staff from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, along with the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
 
At the meeting's outset, Al-Sudani emphasized that higher education had been significantly impacted by wars, sanctions, occupation, security challenges, and the fight against terrorism. He underscored the crucial role of education in fostering progress across all fields and sectors, highlighting its significance in improving the society and individual development.
 
The Prime Minister reiterated that the government's priorities, founded on an understanding of citizens' needs, remain focused on bolstering education in all levels and sectors. He emphasized the crucial role of the National Strategy for Education (2022-2031) in this regard and stressed the necessity of devising effective implementation mechanisms to put the strategy into action.
 
Al-Sudani identified the issue of the mismatch between the outputs of higher education and the demands of the labor market. He also highlighted the presence of unnecessary specializations that put a strain on the state's resources, while neglecting the importance of preparing individuals for emerging and innovative professions that require specialized qualifications and skills.
 
Furthermore, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of directing attention towards disciplines that align with the needs of our economy and institutions. He urged the universities to become hubs for problem-solving and system development, seeking solutions for issues related to academic admission expansion and regulations exceptions and special treatments that have adversely affected academic standards.
 
 Al-Sudani highlighted the critical importance of university staff development and effective assessments to ensure accurate eligibility. He firmly urged the educational institutions to remain free from political influence. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need to base academic promotions not solely on research publications but also on scientific conferences that foster initiatives and activities. Additionally, Mr. Al-Sudani emphasized the importance of strategically utilizing scholarship students, placing them in roles that fully leverage the benefits of their scholarships.
 
Al-Sudani was briefed on the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research educational improvement plan, as well as proposals and visions from presented by several university presidents.