ERBIL — Despite facing a financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has remained dedicated to advancing the education sector, spearheading numerous initiatives under the ninth cabinet to enhance the quality and accessibility of education.

One of the key achievements under PM Barzani’s leadership is the recruitment of over 40,000 lecturers on permanent contracts across the Ministries of Education, Higher Education, and Scientific Research. This initiative, aimed at bolstering the education workforce, has been widely welcomed, with ongoing efforts to finalize the recruitment process.

In preparation for the 2024-2025 academic year, the Ministry of Education has printed 19.768 million new textbooks at a cost of over 24 billion dinars. These books, printed in the UAE using advanced digital methods, feature updated designs and content in multiple languages, including Kurdish, Arabic, English, and Syriac. The new textbooks are designed to be more engaging, with interactive features such as QR codes for additional learning resources.

To combat overcrowding and eliminate multi-shift school systems, the ninth cabinet has prioritized expanding educational infrastructure. For the upcoming school year, 42 new kindergartens and school buildings will open, with over 195 new facilities constructed and 1,503 schools renovated to accommodate more than 100,000 students.

The government has also focused on reintegrating students who were previously separated from the education system, bringing back over 26,000 students across Kurdistan. Special support measures have been introduced for students who survived Islamic State (IS) attacks, allowing those excluded due to age restrictions to continue their education, including free private schooling for eligible students.

The cabinet has launched several digital platforms to enhance educational resources and quality. These include the Library and Training Platform for teacher training and school data management, the E-Ktebxana electronic library to promote reading, the E-Xezan platform for family education guidance, and the E-Balaxana platform that digitizes information on educational infrastructure developments.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the government has equipped 60 schools with solar energy systems, with plans to convert an additional 72 schools using the regional budget. This initiative aims to promote environmental responsibility within the education sector.

To ensure the continuous improvement of education standards, the cabinet established a confidence committee to oversee curriculum development and set educational benchmarks. Additionally, incentives have been introduced to reward teachers and students who excel in promoting literacy and academic achievement.

Through these comprehensive initiatives, the cabinet under PM Barzani demonstrates a steadfast commitment to enhancing education and providing quality learning opportunities for all students in the Region, regardless of their circumstances.