The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research signed a memorandum of cooperation with Huawei on Wednesday, aiming to advance information and communication technology (ICT) in Iraq. 

Minister Naim al-Aboudi emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "This qualitative event embodies a partnership and interest between the competent departments in the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Huawei, which has provided important work in the field of information and communication technology."

The agreement, attended by representatives from the Chinese embassy, international organizations, and civil society, will see Huawei establish virtual training centers in Iraqi universities and colleges. These centers will offer state-of-the-art coursework and globally recognized degrees. 

Al-Aboudi highlighted the Ministry's commitment to supporting students and researchers, noting that "sponsoring this cooperation with Huawei, which will open academies in coordination with academic cities in Iraq to support our students and encourage innovation and creative thought among technical talents, is important and interesting."

Huawei has pledged to train two thousand university students and one hundred lecturers over the next three years. 

Through these programs, Iraqi students will gain knowledge of the latest ICT innovations, connect with global ICT talent, and participate in international competitions and training sessions at Huawei's headquarters in China.

Al-Aboudi remarked on the broader impact of digital transformation in education, stating that it is essential to "transform the education sector and ensure accessibility, quality, and relevance in the face of technological advancement." 

Huawei's involvement in this initiative is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the digitization of education in Iraq, providing invaluable expertise and resources.

At the event, Chinese Embassy's Commercial Counselor Xiu Chun noted, "Iraq is the third-largest trading partner for China among Arab countries." 

He highlighted Iraq's increasing digital transformation needs, especially in government services.

Huawei Iraq's Executive Director, William Yang, emphasized, "This partnership will give Iraqi students access to the latest technologies and globally recognized certifications." 

Yang also mentioned Huawei's commitment to training 2,000 students and 100 lecturers over three years, fostering innovation and bridging the digital divide in Iraq.