Conference to develop Iraqi universities

ARBIL / IraqiNews.com:  About 100 Iraqi expatriate scientists participated today in the scientific conference to develop higher education in Iraq.   Heads of Iraqi universities also attended the conference.   Kurdistan Higher Education Minister called on Iraqi scientists to work in Kurdish universities, while a U.S. Embassy official disclosed the availability of new fellowships to Iraqi students.   The conference was organized by the International Institute for Education (IIE) with the participation of both central and Kurdish ministries of higher education.   The Kurdish minister stated  that “Kurdistan is the real gate to Iraq“.   “Our universities are open to whomever wants to work in the region. We will provide them with all possible facilities,” he added.   The Institute representative stated “we are trying to find a state of understanding with Iraqi universities in order to develop higher education.”   The higher education advisor at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad expressed his country’s support for the higher education in Iraq in order to regain its international position in world community.   “The U.S. has provided many chances for Iraqi students. Next week we will announce more fellowships,” he added.   RM (TI)/SR 768