By Al-Fassel | 2025-10-10

These cutting-edge institutions aim to position Iraq as a leader in innovation and global competitiveness.

The College of Artificial Intelligence focuses on three key areas: engineering applications, biomedical applications, and big data. With specialized faculty, it will offer robust undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the demands of the digital age.

Meanwhile, the College of Excellence promises a unique academic experience. Students will benefit from graduate study pathways, priority access to scholarships, and monthly stipends to support their academic journey.

Its diverse programs will include applied information systems, data science, e-business management, accounting, banking, philosophy, and sociology.

A Vision for Iraq’s Knowledge Economy

Officials describe these colleges as the cornerstone of the University of Excellence project. This initiative is part of Iraq’s broader strategy to boost its knowledge economy, foster innovation, and prepare graduates to compete on a global stage.

Iraq’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) issued a ministerial order to establish the two colleges. This move aligns with Iraq’s strategic plan to modernize its academic system and stay ahead in the global race for digital and intellectual advancements.

The new colleges begun operations in the 2025–2026 academic year. To ensure a smooth launch, the ministry has finalized all logistical and staffing requirements.

Advancing Digital Transformation

This development is part of Iraq’s broader push toward digital transformation. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani inaugurated the Digital Transformation and Automation Center at MOHESR.

Al-Sudani has emphasized that digital transformation is a core component of Iraq’s economic reforms. The government is incorporating electronic payments and collaborating with organizations like the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). These efforts aim to drive innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital business.

Sarkawt Penjweni is the Head of the Academy of Artificial Intelligence and Graphic Design, an Iraq-based NGO. He said that they are currently collaborating with legal and information technology experts to draft a law regulating AI. He also added, "Our goal is to be the first in the Middle East to establish a law governing AI."

A Great Step Toward the Future

The launch of these two colleges marks an important step for Iraq’s higher education system.

Iraq is investing in fields like AI, data science, and e-business to prepare its students for the future. This also demonstrates the country's readiness to contribute to the global digital economy.

As the 2025–2026 academic year approaches, all eyes will be on the University of Baghdad. These new colleges could very well set the stage for Iraq’s emergence as a hub for innovation, research, and global competitiveness.

With the government’s commitment to fostering digital transformation and academic excellence, Iraq is paving the way for a brighter, more technologically advanced future.