Graduates Reach Top Tier Education at American University of Baghdad, Once Housing Saddam's Residence
American University of Baghdad Graduates First Cohort at Historic Ceremony
BAGHDAD—On Saturday, the American University of Baghdad (AUB) held its first commencement ceremony, marking the launch of a new era in Iraqi higher education. The event took place within the walls of the al-Faw Palace, a former residence of Saddam Hussein, now transformed into a modern academic institution.
The university's establishment follows years of extensive renovations and collaborations with influential Iraqi business owner, Saadi Saihood. In 2003, the site served as a U.S. coalition military headquarters, Camp Victory, before its transition into the current American-style university.
AUIB celebrated the graduation of its inaugural group of 38 students—20 male and 18 female—in degrees spanning business administration, sciences, and humanities. The ceremony was attended by political dignitaries, families, and faculty members.
Addressing the crowd, AUB's president, Dr. Michael Mulnix, highlighted the university's journey from its initial state of disrepair to its current standing as an exceptional research institution. He also emphasized AUB's expanding network of international partnerships with prestigious universities, such as Vanderbilt University, the University of Exeter, and Sapienza University of Rome.
University founder and owner Saihood heralded the graduation as a symbol of AUIB's enduring legacy and its commitment to making a significant impact on the Iraqi educational system. Despite the challenges faced by the graduates, particularly the scarcity of government employment, he emphasized that the university has instilled adaptability and initiative among its students, making them well-equipped for success in the private sector or entrepreneurial ventures.
Iraq still grapples with ongoing issues of brain drain, with young people seeking opportunities and stability abroad. However, AUB alumnus Mohammed Baqir demonstrated optimism, citing job offers he had obtained through the university's network, particularly in the private sector.
In terms of cost, Baqir's education amounted to around ten million Iraqi dinars, equivalent to approximately $7,600.
Iraq's long-standing conflict has led to decades of instability, but as AUB commences its journey, it symbolizes a beacon of hope for the country's educational future.
[1] Baghdad's American University of Buzzing with International Collaborations[2] "Decolonizing English in Higher Education" Workshop Set to Take Place at American University of Baghdad[3] AUIB Signs Agreement with Instituto Cervantes to Boost Cultural, Linguistic Diversity in Iraq's Higher Education
- Amidst historical challenges, the American University of Baghdad (AUB) expands its horizons with international partnerships in education-and-self-development, establishing connections with Vanderbilt University, University of Exeter, and Sapienza University of Rome for online-education and learning opportunities.
- The Government of Iraq acknowledges the significance of the American University of Baghdad (AUB), an institution that has weathered adversity and grown into a vital part of Iraq's recovering higher education system, offering degrees in business, science, and humanities.
- Students graduating from the American University of Baghdad (AUB) are prepared to make their mark in Baghdad's burgeoning private sector, as well as consider entrepreneurial ventures, thanks to the university's focus on fostering adaptability and initiative in a challenging local business environment.
