Baghdad (AP) – American University Baghdad celebrated its inaugural graduation ceremony on Saturday. This event took place at the former palace campus that once belonged to Saddam Hussein.
Officials expressed hope that this graduation symbolizes a fresh chapter in Iraq’s higher education landscape, one that emphasizes modernity, openness, and adherence to international academic standards.
The university was constructed in 2021 on an island in an artificial lake created by Saddam in the 1990s, established on the premises of the Alfe Palace as a tribute to the revival of its namesake peninsula post-conflict.
Following the US-led invasion in 2003, which marked the end of Saddam’s rule, the site transitioned to serve as the headquarters for the US Allied forces known as Camp Win. It eventually transformed into an American-style institution, offering a core liberal arts curriculum funded by prominent Iraqi entrepreneur Saadi Saihood.
A total of 38 students—20 men and 18 women—graduated on Saturday, receiving degrees in business administration, science, and humanities during a ceremony attended by family members and faculty.
University President Dr. Michael Malnix addressed the attendees, reflecting on the institution’s challenging beginnings.
“When I initially came to American University in Baghdad in 2018, the campus was unrecognizable,” he noted. “Years of conflict and neglect had left the infrastructure in disrepair, with many buildings damaged or destroyed. Today, however, we proudly stand before a remarkable academic institution recognized among the top research universities.”
Currently, AUB has formed an extensive network of partnerships with prestigious universities worldwide, including Vanderbilt University, Colorado School of Mines, Lawrence Technological University, Temple University, Exeter University, and Sapienza University in Rome.
Saihood, the founder and owner of the university, described the graduation as “a significant milestone that underscores this institution’s commitment to making a lasting impact.”
He acknowledged the economic hurdles graduates face, particularly the lack of government job opportunities, while emphasizing that the university prepares students with the skills and initiative necessary to succeed in the private sector or through entrepreneurship.
While Iraq’s security situation has improved in recent years after prolonged conflict, the nation still grapples with the issue of brain drain as youth seek stability and opportunities abroad.
“The future in Iraq is challenging. All our graduates share these concerns,” said Mohamed Bakir of Najaf, who received his Bachelor of Business degree on Saturday. “However, what differentiates us from other institutions is that we have already received job offers through AUB, particularly in the private sector. My tuition, around 10 million Iraqi Dinars, has proven to be an invaluable investment.”
Source: apnews.com