On October 16, 2024, the University of Sulaimani hosted a special ceremony at its Congress Hall to commemorate its achievement of ranking first in Kurdistan and Iraq, according to the latest Times Higher Education rankings. The event was graced by the presence of Iraq’s First Lady, Mrs. Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed, Minister of Higher Education Dr. Aram Muhammad Qadir, University President Prof. Dr. Kosar Muhammed Ali, Sulaimaniyah Governor Dr. Haval Abu Bakr, alongside government officials, faculty, staff, and students.

During his speech, Prof. Dr. Kosar Muhammed welcomed the distinguished guests and celebrated the university’s historic achievement, stating: “The University of Sulaimani, as the first higher education institution in Sulaimaniyah, has now made its mark as the first university in Kurdistan to be ranked globally. We have secured the top spot in Iraq and are ranked within the 1001-1200 range worldwide.”

He also outlined the key steps to sustain this success, focusing on pioneering impactful research, implementing quality assurance practices, and strengthening the university’s ties with both the job market and society.

Dr. Aram Qadir praised the university’s accomplishment, expressing the Ministry of Higher Education’s pride and commitment to supporting the institution in maintaining its prestigious position. Similarly, Governor Dr. Haval Abubakr applauded the university’s leadership in the academic field, emphasizing the importance of supporting its autonomy project to ensure continued progress and success.