On February 16, 2025, Cihan University – Duhok successfully concluded the Fourth Annual Economic Forum, which featured insightful discussions on the transformation of Iraq’s labor market and adaptation to digitalization. The event brought together a distinguished group of experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders.
The first session, moderated by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Saffar, hosted Dr. Amer Aladhadh, Economic Advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, and Mr. Abdulkareem Hamad Mohamad, Director of the Directorate of Labor in Duhok Governorate.
Dr. Amer Aladhadh elaborated on the structure of the Iraqi economy, emphasizing the necessity of transitioning toward a knowledge-based economy as a prerequisite for digital transformation. He also highlighted the importance of integrating modern technologies into educational institutions to equip students with the necessary skills for the evolving job market, including artificial intelligence. Additionally, he discussed government initiatives aimed at establishing specialized institutions and schools to nurture talented students and develop them into future leaders through tailored curricula.
As part of his presentation, Dr. Aladhadh also introduced a comprehensive government reform program, outlining key policy actions needed to revitalize Iraq’s economy. He explained each component of the reform plan, focusing on structural changes in governance, investment policies, labor market development, and economic diversification. His presentation emphasized the critical steps the Iraqi government must take to ensure sustainable economic growth and a competitive labor market.
Mr. Abdulkareem Hamad Mohamad provided statistical insights into unemployment rates in Duhok and the increasing number of foreign workers in the city. He explained that the withdrawal of the United Nations from the region had significantly impacted the funding of local and international NGOs, a sector heavily relied upon by Duhok’s workforce. Moreover, the lack of investment in the region has hindered private sector development, limiting employment opportunities and skill-building. However, he pointed out that digital platforms introduced by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) have created new job opportunities and avenues for employment.
The second session, moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Nawar Al-Saadi, featured Dr. Bilal Al-Saghir, Representative of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in Iraq.
Dr. Bilal Al-Saghir addressed the key factors necessary for digital transformation in labor markets, including technological infrastructure, government digital platforms, e-banking, fintech, and human resource development in digital fields. He stressed the importance of upskilling the workforce, where older generations must adapt to new technologies, and younger generations need to acquire new digital skills to integrate into the evolving labor market. Additionally, he emphasized that innovation, rather than traditional employment, could be the key to economic transformation, highlighting the need to foster an innovation-driven culture.
The forum witnessed active audience engagement and insightful contributions, along with widespread media coverage from various news channels.
Cihan University – Duhok remains committed to supporting economic and developmental dialogue, and we look forward to hosting more impactful events in the future to shape a sustainable and resilient labor market in Iraq.
