Higher Education Policies in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (2003-2023): An Analytical Study of Quantitative Indicators and Structural Obstacles

Sharif, Amin Faraj

doi:10.37651/aujlps.2025.166375.1645

	Higher Education Policies in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (2003-2023): An Analytical Study of Quantitative Indicators and Structural Obstacles
Journal of Anbar University for Law and Political Sciences
Article 28, Volume 16, Issue: 2, June 2026, Pages 680-718 PDF (911.47 K)
Document Type: Research Paper
DOI: 10.37651/aujlps.2025.166375.1645
Author
Amin Faraj Sharif^*
University of Salahaddin / College of Political Science / Department of Political Systems and Public Policy
Abstract
This research looks into the policies of higher education in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from 2003 to 2023, emphasizing how quantitative measures developed and the limitations affecting the sector. A mixed method approach was taken, incorporating both numerical data and descriptive analysis, to assess the important changes that have taken place in both public and private universities due to shifts in the political and economic landscape. The findings indicated that there was a considerable increase in the number of universities and students in higher education; however, this growth did not result in improvements in the quality of education or the effectiveness of the outcomes. It also highlighted that the sector struggles with fundamental issues related to funding, personnel, facilities, and management oversight. The study suggests that more practical policies should be implemented that prioritize quality and connect higher education to long-term development and the needs of the job market.
Keywords
Higher education; quantitative measures; fundamental issues; analysis of public policy; Kurdistan Region of Iraq

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