British international university opens in Erbil
Erbil, September 7, 2024 — In a landmark event, the British International University was officially inaugurated by Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The new institution aims to bring world-class British education standards to the Kurdistan Region.
During his keynote speech at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Barzani emphasized the significance of this academic milestone. He noted that the university would serve as a bridge to the rich educational traditions and teaching methodologies of British universities, giving valuable opportunities to students in the region.
“We are a nation abundant in human resources, with a youthful population that is key to our future,” Barzani said. “To fully realize our potential, we must invest in our young people, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the development of our country.”
Barzani also highlighted the critical role higher education plays in shaping the future, stressing the need for research and scientific study to inform the region’s policies and programs. “Since assuming office, I have noticed gaps in several areas where we lack comprehensive research, data, and detailed analysis,” he said. “Our universities must take up the challenge of addressing these deficiencies.”
The Prime Minister called for greater collaboration between Kurdish universities and international academic institutions, particularly in fields crucial to the region’s development, such as agriculture, industry, economics, water management, environmental protection, and climate change.
In his closing remarks, Barzani expressed hope that Kurdistan’s academic institutions would rise to the challenge and lead efforts to find solutions to pressing environmental issues. He urged universities to engage in joint research initiatives with foreign partners, laying the groundwork for innovation and sustainable progress in the region.
The opening of the British International University marks a new chapter in the advancement of higher education in Kurdistan, fostering a vision for a brighter, more prosperous future.
Wendy Thomson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, said in her speech: “It is a great honor for me to participate in the opening of the British International University in Erbil. I would especially like to thank Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, and the Kurdistan Regional Government.”
Thomson added: “I thank the Prime Minister for his continuous support for this project. The British International University helps young people secure a better future, particularly in this region and the Middle East. I also extend my thanks to the British International University team, the British Consulate, and the British Embassy, all of whom have supported us throughout this process.”
“Our university has always aimed to develop education and continuously strives to help the community,” she continued. “We offer significant support to students through online programs.”
Thomson also mentioned: “Our main university is in London, and we collaborate with 17 world-class universities in various fields, including economics, politics, and commerce. Currently, about four thousand students from 109 different countries study at the University of London, participating in our programs.”
Andrew Beasley, British Consul General in Kurdistan, also delivered remarks at the event: “Today, I feel exceptionally honored to be here. It has always been a privilege to represent Britain, and I am delighted to participate in the opening of this university.”
Beasley continued: “The opening of this university is a significant achievement. Shortly after I was appointed as British Consul in the Kurdistan Region, construction of this building began. During my first conversations with Kurdistan’s political leaders, they emphasized the importance of this university, which deepened my commitment to supporting it.”