Iraq closes 158 unlicensed private education institutions

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Education announced the closure of 158 unlicensed private education institutions following inspections in Baghdad and other cities. The action was carried out on instructions from Education Minister Abdul Karim Abtan, whose ministry coordinated with the National Security Advisory. According to the ministry, a ministerial commission carried out sudden inspections of private tutoring institutes, targeting institutions operating without official authorization or in violation of regulations. Legal proceedings were initiated against the noncompliant centers. The ministry said subcommittees under the provincial education directorates in Baghdad and other cities conducted the field inspections, with their work coordinated by the central commission. Inspections were concentrated in May, June and July, during which the decision to close the 158 institutions was made. The ministry added that inspections of unlicensed private education institutions will continue.