UTM Produces 63 Graduates From Overseas Franchise Programme In Iraq

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 21 (Bernama) -- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has successfully produced 63 graduates through its overseas franchise programme at Qaiwan International University (QIU) in Kurdistan, Iraq, in conjunction with its 68th convocation ceremony.

Its vice-chancelllor Professor Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail hailed this achievement as a significant milestone for both the university and the country.

“This is a major accomplishment as UTM’s franchise programme is the first of its kind to be offered in the Middle East.

“The initiative reflects UTM’s commitment to advancing the internationalisation of higher education, in line with the aspirations of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said in a statement today.

Ahmad Fauzi added that the establishment of the QIU campus allows UTM to expand its academic offerings in Iraq, particularly in developing a skilled professional workforce to address regional demands.

“Various new collaborations will be explored, including offering Master's and PhD programmes, professional development courses, research, consultancy and other impactful projects for the mutual benefit of both institutions,” he said.

This cohort marks the second batch of UTM’s off-campus graduates under the Transnational Education (TNE) programme, a collaboration between QIU and UTM via UTMSPACE, initiated six years ago.

The 63 graduates include 22 from the Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering) programme, eight from the Bachelor of Computer Science (Computer Network and Security) programme, six from the Bachelor of Management (Technology) programme, 14 from the Bachelor of Engineering (Medical) programme, and 13 from the Bachelor of Science (Human Resource Development) programme.

QIU, founded in 2017, was established by two UTM alumni, Dr Harith R. Hasan and Dr Ahmed Abdullah, who currently serve as the university’s vice president (Academic).

Initially operating from a temporary campus in Sulaimaniyah, QIU officially opened its doors in August 2018 before relocating to its current campus in Sulemani Heights, Sharbazher, Sulaimaniyah.

-- BERNAMA