On September 7, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated the British International University in Erbil.
In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized that the Kurdistan Region is rich in human resources and is a young society. He urged for investment in the youth of the Kurdistan Region and guide them so they can actively contribute to building a more prosperous future.
We are committed to delivering world-class education to our public.
The British International University in Erbil is part of that ongoing effort. pic.twitter.com/5HFaBbcazz
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) September 7, 2024
Below is the text of the Prime Minister’s speech:
“In the name of God, the Great and Merciful,
Distinguished attendees,
Honorable guests,
I am very pleased to be here today with you to take part in the inauguration of the British International University. The opening of this university brings the rich experience and educational methods of British universities to the Kurdistan Region. This step will significantly impact the advancement of higher education in our region and, at the same time, create better opportunities for further strengthening the cultural, scientific, and economic ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United Kingdom.
Our country is rich in human resources, and we have a youthful society. Therefore, we must invest in our youth and guide them so they can contribute more effectively to building a better future for our nation. One of the ways to invest in our youth is by supporting their academic and scientific development. By establishing high-level universities, we can nurture greater hopes for a brighter future.
I believe this university will play a crucial role in training skilled professionals and specialists, and its graduates will contribute to the country’s development and progress. This is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of research and scientific inquiry. Research plays a significant role in shaping our plans and programs for the future. Since taking on the responsibility of leading this government, I have noticed a lack of detailed studies and data in many areas. Therefore, our universities must support us in this regard.
Our universities must establish partnerships with advanced international academic and scientific institutions to collaborate on research in critical areas such as agriculture, industry, economics, water management, the environment, and climate change. British universities have valuable experience in these fields, and this university can serve as a platform for further advancement.
Before coming here, we also laid the foundation stone for a pond within the grounds of this university. A large part of the university’s campus is dedicated to green spaces, and the university is making use of new energy sources. These are positive steps and reflect the university’s commitment to environmental protection and its efforts to combat the negative impacts of climate change.
I hope all our universities and academic institutions will take on the responsibility of finding solutions to environmental challenges. I also hope that our dear students at this university and others will take advantage of the opportunities offered by these institutions to enhance their knowledge and skills, enabling them to serve Kurdistan and their country effectively and to become exemplary leaders for the future of our society.
Here, I reaffirm my support and the support of the Kurdistan Regional Government for this university.
Once again, I extend my congratulations and wish you continued success.”
original article (in Kurdish)