College of Education for Humanities Holds Scientific Seminar on Training and Qualifying Graduates for the Competitive Labor Market
The Qualification, Employment, and Follow-up Unit, in cooperation with the English Department at the College of Education for Humanities, University of Diyala, held a scientific seminar entitled “Training and Qualifying Graduates for the Competitive Labor Market.” The seminar addressed the challenges facing graduates in light of rapid economic changes, where requirements are no longer limited to academic knowledge but extend to practical, digital, and soft skills. The seminar indicated that youth unemployment rates in Iraq exceed 25%, according to World Bank data (2024), necessitating the development of more effective qualification mechanisms.The seminar, presented by Assistant Lecturer Omar Hatem Ibrahim, highlighted the importance of multidimensional training and development, including internships, which help bridge the gap between theory and practice. It also emphasized the need to develop digital skills to keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly in light of UNESCO’s 2025 reports indicating a significant lack of advanced digital skills among Arab graduates. The seminar further stressed the crucial role of soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication, which, according to OECD studies, are critical factors in employment opportunities.The seminar addressed proposed mechanisms to enhance graduate readiness, including integrating mandatory training programs into university curricula in collaboration with companies, and building strategic partnerships between universities and the private sector to establish joint training centers. It also advocated for leveraging supportive legal frameworks, such as the Iraqi Investment Law No. 13 of 2006 (as amended). Finally, the seminar called for the adoption of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure program effectiveness, such as the employment rate within the first six months after graduation.The symposium concluded by emphasizing the need to strengthen the role of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in supporting training programs and launching funding initiatives for digital skills development, drawing inspiration from successful regional experiences in the UAE in developing labor market policies. This activity aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), contributing to the preparation of graduates capable of competing in the local and international labor markets.
