Professor Dr Mariwan Ahmed Rasheed, President of the University of Human Development (UHD), and Assistant President for Financial Affairs, Assistant Professor Dr Hiwa Abubakir Ali, recently participated in the International Consultative Meeting of Presidents of Islamic Universities. Hosted by Gaziantep Islamic Science and Technology University in the Republic of Türkiye, the prestigious event gathered representatives from 73 universities spanning 41 countries.

UHD’s participation underscores its ongoing commitment to broadening academic cooperation and fostering deep engagement with international educational institutions. The university has a strong track record of partnership in the region, having previously held strategic meetings and signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various Turkish universities and higher education bodies to promote academic collaboration. As an important neighbour to Iraq, Türkiye shares a relationship where mutual cooperation and joint initiatives can pave the way for shared regional prosperity.

The consultative meeting served as a vital academic platform for strengthening international ties. Delegates explored ways to build a unified academic vision, develop joint scientific research programmes, facilitate student and faculty exchanges, and leverage modern technologies—such as Artificial Intelligence—to enhance the future of higher education.

On the sidelines of the forum, the University of Human Development held a series of high-level meetings with the President of the Council of Higher Education of the Republic of Türkiye, alongside several Turkish university presidents. These discussions explored prospective avenues for academic and scientific cooperation. They aimed to forge strategic understandings and agreements that will expand UHD's international partnerships, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and launch joint academic and research initiatives.

The UHD President and Assistant President also held a targeted meeting with Professor Dr Şeyhmus Demir, President of Gaziantep Islamic Science and Technology University. This session focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, with a specific emphasis on joint academic activities, exchanging expertise in education and scientific research, leveraging digital technology and artificial intelligence, and developing future academic programs.

To formalise these discussions, the University of Human Development and Gaziantep Islamic Science and Technology University signed a comprehensive cooperation agreement at the conclusion of the meeting. This pact is designed to solidify partnerships in scientific research, streamline student and faculty exchange programs, and drive the implementation of joint academic activities.