Kirkuk University says it is first Iraqi institution to win international quality accreditation

KIRKUK, Iraq — The University of Kirkuk announced that its Continuing Education Center has received ISO/IEC 17024 quality management accreditation, becoming the first Iraqi university to obtain the certification. The accreditation was granted by the Iraqi Accreditation Authority, which operates under the country's Ministry of Planning, after the center met the required international criteria and standards. University President Imran Jamal Hassan said the achievement was the result of internal teamwork and a commitment to academic excellence. He also commended the contributions of the center's director, along with its teaching, administrative and technical staff. Officials said the accreditation will allow the center to organize training programs and issue certificates recognized internationally across various fields. The step is expected to support the development of a workforce aligned with labor market needs, though no further details were immediately available on the specific programs or implementation timeline.