Halabja's medical dream: UK universities step in

Shafaq News/ Kurdish Minister of Higher Education Aram Mohammad Qadir, met on Tuesday in Erbil, with Acting British Consul General Andrew Beasley and his accompanying delegation.
In an official statement, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that several British universities have expressed their readiness to support the establishment of a medical college at the University of Halabja.
During the meeting, Beasley reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with the Kurdistan Region. “The UK values its partnership with the Kurdistan Region and is eager to support the development of higher education,” he said, adding that British universities are prepared to contribute their expertise in medical education, curriculum development, and the creation of teaching hospital infrastructure in Halabja.
Minister Qadir praised the strong relationship between the Kurdistan Region and the UK. He emphasized that the ministry is actively working to establish a state-of-the-art medical college at the University of Halabja. “This initiative will not only enhance medical education in our region but also significantly improve healthcare services for the people of Halabja,” he stated, showing highly appreciation to the willingness of British universities to support this vision and look forward to further strengthening our collaboration.
Notably, the
UK’s support for education in Iraq is longstanding. The British Council has
worked with the Iraqi government to enhance learning outcomes for approximately
800,000 primary and secondary school students in Kurdistan, with an emphasis on
technical and vocational education. Additionally, the EU Schools Program,
funded by the European Union, focuses on improving education access for
children in rural areas, girls, disabled students, and those affected by
conflict.
The UK has
also developed partnerships with universities in the Kurdistan Region,
promoting academic exchanges, curriculum development, and capacity-building
initiatives, including support for the British International University (BIU).