The Continuing Education Center at the University of Information Technology and Communications held a scientific seminar entitled “Developing a Culture of Strategic Thinking and Planning in Higher Education Institutions.” The seminar was presented by Dr. Muwaffaq Kadhim Mahdi, a faculty member in the Department of Private Education at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and was attended by a number of faculty members and those interested in academic affairs.

The seminar addressed the concept of strategic planning and its importance in improving the performance of higher education institutions. It also reviewed successful international experiences in Finland, France, Korea, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia, and highlighted the role of the knowledge economy in enhancing the quality of education and strengthening the ability of academic institutions to keep pace with changes.

The presenter also reviewed the pillars of the National Education Strategy in Iraq and its success indicators, particularly the quality of educational outcomes, support for innovation and patents, and attracting international students. He also emphasized the importance of integrating the internal and external environment of the institution and investing its resources in building a more efficient and sustainable future.

The symposium concluded by emphasizing the importance of adopting strategic planning as an ongoing methodology for transforming vision and objectives into measurable and evaluable action plans. This contributes to achieving high-quality education, developing scientific research and community services, and enhancing competitiveness and lifelong learning within higher education institutions.