Al-Mustaqbal University, represented by its President, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, participated in the opening of the third edition of the Iraq Education Conference, which commenced on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, under the patronage and in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hassani. The conference was held under the theme: “From Education to Development: Global Partnerships and Universities Shaping the Future.” The opening ceremony witnessed the attendance of prominent official and academic figures, including the Chair and members of the Parliamentary Education Committee, the Head of the Advisory Board, several ministers and government officials, as well as distinguished academic leaders, experts, specialists, and national and international scientific figures. In his opening address, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research emphasized the importance of the conference as a key platform for exchanging expertise, expanding institutional cooperation, and establishing strategic partnerships that contribute to advancing higher education and strengthening the position of Iraqi universities in regional and international academic forums. His Excellency also highlighted the Ministry’s vision of promoting the concept of the “productive university” through supporting applied scientific research, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, strengthening partnerships with the public and private sectors, and developing technology incubators. These initiatives aim to align educational outcomes with labor market needs and the requirements of sustainable development. The opening ceremony also featured keynote speeches by Prof. Jim Burkee, President of Saint Leo University in the United States, and Dr. Salman Al-Rawaf, Director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre with Imperial College London. Their contributions highlighted the importance of cooperation and knowledge exchange in advancing education and academic development. On the sidelines of the conference, the Minister inaugurated the Iraqi Higher Education Exhibition, which brought together a wide range of Iraqi, Arab, and international universities. The exhibition aims to explore opportunities for academic cooperation, exchange experiences and expertise, and expand scientific and institutional partnerships. The third edition of the conference will continue over two days, featuring scientific sessions and specialized discussions addressing several key themes, including vocational and technical education, the internationalization of education and transnational education, scientific research aligned with national priorities, smart digital transformation, sustainability and the environment, as well as strengthening investment and strategic partnerships to translate visions into practical initiatives that support the national economy. Al-Mustaqbal University’s participation in this prominent academic event reflects its commitment to keeping pace with developments in higher education, strengthening communication with local and international academic institutions, and engaging with global experiences that contribute to advancing education and scientific research. It also underscores the University’s commitment to establishing effective partnerships that support sustainable development. Al-Mustaqbal University is the No. 1 university in Iraq.