Kurdistan Region President highlights role of education at AUK’s 10th anniversary celebration
"I warmly congratulate this advanced academic institution that has embodied a new idea to change the education system in the Kurdistan Region," he said.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Sunday celebrated the 10th anniversary of the American University of Kurdistan (AUK), underscoring the institution’s transformative impact on the region's education system and its contributions to societal development.
Speaking at the event, Kurdistan Region President Barzani congratulated AUK on its achievements over the past decade. "I warmly congratulate this advanced academic institution that has embodied a new idea to change the education system in the Kurdistan Region," he said. "Education is not only a tool for individual development but a force that builds societies and creates a bright future for nations."
Reflecting on the university's founding, Kurdistan Region President Barzani recalled discussions in 2013 with his brother, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, who proposed the establishment of a high-quality educational institution. "I welcomed his idea with great pleasure and thank him for his continuous efforts and vision," he said, commending AUK’s Board of Trustees and leadership for overcoming challenges to ensure the university’s success.
The president highlighted AUK’s mission to serve as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation, preparing future generations to face global challenges. Over the past decade, AUK has achieved significant milestones, including becoming the first higher education institution in Iraq to pass multiple stages of international academic accreditation.
President Barzani also noted the university's commitment to accessibility, referencing Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s statement that 70% of AUK students have benefited from financial support. This, coupled with contributions from investors, has enabled students from diverse backgrounds to access quality education.
"Through education, we can build a developed society, a strong economy, and a bright future worthy of the sacrifices of our resilient people," President Barzani stated. However, he acknowledged the need for further efforts to modernize the Kurdistan Region’s education system, including curriculum development and aligning with 21st-century labor market demands.
The event also featured the sixth graduation ceremony of AUK, which has conferred degrees on more than 700 students since its inception in 2014.
Accredited by both the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi government, AUK continues to inspire excellence and innovation, with many graduates pursuing advanced degrees at prestigious universities worldwide.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani joined President Nechirvan Barzani at the celebration in Erbil, marking a decade of AUK’s contributions to the region’s academic and social progress.