Tehran: Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Iraq, Hayder Abed Dhahad, has expressed Iraq’s interest in enhancing educational cooperation with Iran. During a meeting with Iran’s Deputy Minister of Science, Research, and Technology Saeed Habiba, and Head of the Organization of Student Affairs Saeed Habiba, the Iraqi official emphasized the value of Iranian university degrees and the quality of education.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, many Iraqi students are currently enrolled in medical programs in Iran but face interruptions due to legal requirements mandating their return to Iraq after one year. Dhahad highlighted the need for solutions to allow students to complete their studies in Iran. He also noted that despite some Iranian universities dropping in global rankings due to sanctions, the quality of education remains high.

Habiba, representing Iran, pointed to the cultural, religious, and historical ties between the two nations as a basis for strengthening educational and scientific collaboration. He outlined a five-year plan to attract more international students, particularly from Iraq, while maintaining high academic standards.

Presently, around 30,000 Iraqi students are studying at various Iranian universities, mainly in fields like medicine and engineering. A significant number are pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. Habiba expressed optimism about improving the education and accommodation provided to Iraqi students.

During his visit to Tehran, Abed Dhahad met with Minister of Science, Research, and Technology Hossein Simaee Sarraf and plans to sign a memorandum of understanding to further expand cooperation with Iran.