India has the highest percentage of young people in the world. The country has produced many geniuses who have come up with some finest inventions. In an effort to address a lack of innovation, Iraq is offering educational scholarships to various countries, including India. They have announced 40 scholarships for PG and UG Indian students this year.
Promoting Innovation
After tackling with wars, dictatorship, invasion and terrorism, Iraq finally had a sigh of relief. But they lack innovation and creativity. Higher education is the key to promote innovation. Thus, to address this issue, the Iraqi government has first time announced 40 scholarships for international students.
These scholarships have been offered in various subjects for both postgraduate and graduate Indian students. In addition, Free tuition and free hostel accommodation will be offered as part of the scholarship.
Abdul Razak Al-Essa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said, “Unfortunately there have been no famous inventions or scientists from Iraq. We want to change this. We want to push our students to be inventors, and create something special.”
Initiative for Getting Rid Of the “Unsafe” tag
Iraq was considered one of the dangerous countries of the world due to the presence of the terrorist organisation. This has affected both of their tourism industry and university rankings. The Iraqi government, by offering scholarships, took an initiative to remove the “unsafe” tag from their country.
Approximately 40 students have registered for the scholarships in India. The Iraqi government has guaranteed a safe return of students.
Al-Essa said, “Almost (all) Iraqi cities are safe since we have got rid of (terror organisation) ISIS. We welcome any student to come from India and other countries that are a friend of ours.”
Improving University Ranking
At present, Iraq has only one University enlisted in Times Higher Education World University Rankings, which has “0 percent” of international students and was placed in the range of 801-1000. In order to promote education culture and improve university rankings, Iraq has opened its door for international students.
“We are really looking forward to opening universities in Iraq to international students for a good ranking,” stated Al-Essa.
