In a move shaping the future of technical education, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University witnessed the official announcement on Wednesday morning, September 9, 2026, of the transformation of the “Najaf Technical Institute” into the “Najaf Polytechnic College.” Hosted by University President Prof. Dr. Hassan Al-Zubaidi and overseen by the Dean of Najaf Polytechnic College, Prof. Dr. Haider Hassan Al-Abdali, this event was hailed as a “turning point” in the trajectory of education in Iraq.
The ceremony, held in the college’s Scientific Complex Hall, was attended by local government officials—including the Head of the Provincial Council, Hussein Al-Issawi; the Head of the Health Committee, Ms. Ansaf Al-Mousawi; and the Head of the Services Committee, Ms. Iman Al-Musaidi—alongside the University’s Administrative and Scientific Assistants (Prof. Dr. Mohammed Al-Majtumi and Prof. Dr. Ahmed Ghanem Wadi), numerous deans of university departments, and a host of academic and community figures representing the college staff who gathered to celebrate this achievement.
Attendees observed a minute of silence for the souls of the martyrs and listened to the national anthem. However, the most significant highlight of the occasion was the announcement of yet another new college in the Holy Governorate of Najaf.
In his address, the University President emphasized that this transformation represents a strategic choice for all, stating:
“Today, we are not merely changing a name; we are announcing the birth of a vital new institution destined to provide the Euphrates region, and Iraq as a whole, with skilled technical engineers—professionals capable of mastering the tools of modern work and production. The Polytechnic College will serve as the executive arm for reconstruction projects in this Holy City.” He explained that the new academic system would adopt global “polytechnic” standards—comprising 70% practical training in workshops and laboratories and 30% theory—thereby ensuring graduates are directly linked to the labor market, all backed by broad government and community support.
Meanwhile, Dr. Hussein Al-Issawi, the local government representative and Head of the Provincial Council, welcomed this initiative. He described it as an “investment in youth potential,” noting that the college would directly contribute to meeting economic and administrative needs by focusing on the workforce of the new millennium. He highlighted the college’s diverse and distinguished areas of specialization, including investment, oil and construction, information technology, and advanced artificial intelligence.
He also expressed his full support for this transformation, noting that it creates job opportunities and represents a “beacon of hope for our families.”
He praised the move, noting that Najaf has taken significant strides toward adopting modern technology—aligning education with reconstruction efforts—and has written a new chapter in its scientific and industrial history.
Describing this achievement as “the most important step of the year,” he stated:
“The local government is joining hands with the university.” “This college invests in the potential of our youth and offers a genuine solution to meet essential needs in energy, construction, information technology, and cultural diversity.”
Prof. Dr. Haider Hassan Al-Abdali, Dean of the College, highlighted that the development plan includes the establishment of seven promising academic departments designed to align with workforce demands and integrate with the community. These departments are:
° Oil Refining Technology Engineering
° Software Technology Engineering and Artificial Intelligence
° Medical Device Technology Engineering
° Emerging Electrical Engineering
° Legal Administration Technologies
° Tourism and Hotel Management Technologies
° Interior Design Technologies
He expressed his pride in this achievement, acknowledging the continuous support from the leadership of Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University and the significant efforts made by the college staff to realize this milestone.
Following the ceremony, the University President inaugurated the Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Technologies Department building, the Cardiac Care Nursing Technologies Department building (including laboratories and halls), the Medical Clinics building, and the Oil and Gas Refining Department laboratories.
Nihad Al-Rubaie / Director of Media and Government Communication
Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University
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