Next Step 2025: Iraq Largest Educational Fair Unites Universities, NGOs, and Companies Under One Roof

Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan, Iraq  – Next Step 2025 has reinforced its position as Iraq’s largest educational fair, expanding this year to cover all parts of Iraq in addition to the Kurdistan Region. The event witnessed the active participation of several Iraqi universities, including the University of Diyala, which attended with a high-level delegation consisting of the university president, deans, and over 30 representatives, along with universities from Erbil, Duhok, and other provinces. With more than 30 universities and institutes participating, the presence of institutions from Cyprus and Spain added a global dimension to the fair.

The fair was not limited to academic institutions only, but also welcomed NGOs and companies to showcase their programs and services to students. In addition, more than 60 new local scholarships for Iraqi students were announced, reaffirming the event’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities.

Integrated Themes and Comprehensive Program

This year’s program focused on three interconnected themes:
– Quality Education
– Labor Market Skills
– Artificial Intelligence

Panel discussions and interactive workshops demonstrated how these themes are interconnected to prepare the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed for their academic and professional future.

Global Vision and Strategic Partnerships

Aligned with global trends, Next Step 2025 supports five of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event is officially registered on the UN’s SDG global map, where its logo is featured.

The fair places particular emphasis on Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering collaboration between universities, NGOs, and companies. Organizers emphasize that this approach contributes to “building a bigger community” and a “greater Iraq.”

About Next Step

Since its inception, Next Step has grown year after year to become a genuine bridge connecting students, universities, and the labor market. With its expansion in 2025, it now stands as Iraq’s leading educational platform for discovering academic opportunities, professional readiness, and innovation.