University of Basrah Celebrates Graduation of Over 12,000 Students at Central Ceremony Attended by Minister of Higher Education and Governor of Basra
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Basra Sports City hosted a landmark academic ceremony today for the central graduation of University of Basrah students ("Lions of Mesopotamia" batch) for the 2025–2026 academic year, amidst extensive official, academic, and public attendance.
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High-Level Official Attendance
The ceremony was attended by His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Haider Bahaa Al-Hasani, the Governor of Basra, Eng. As'ad Al-Eidani, the President of the University of Basrah, Dr. Aqeel Fadhil Al-Dahan, and members of the Iraqi Parliament representing Basra Governorate. Also present were several Iraqi university presidents, college deans, academic, security, and social figures, alongside the families of the graduating students.
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Opening Ceremony
The proceedings commenced with a recitation from the Holy Qur'an and the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha in tribute to the martyrs of Iraq, followed by the playing of the Iraqi National Anthem. Subsequently, over 12,000 male and female graduates from across the colleges and centers of the University of Basrah took the university oath, demonstrating the stature and prestige of the institution.
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Address by the Minister of Higher Education
In his address, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research affirmed that the University of Basrah stands as a venerable scientific landmark that has provided Iraq with specialized expertise for over six decades, praising the designation of this batch as the "Lions of Mesopotamia" for its national significance. He highlighted that the ministry continues to support southern universities and advance their academic programs and curricula to keep pace with labor market demands and digital transformation, while elevating the presence of Iraqi universities in global rankings.
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Address by the University Presidency
For his part, the President of the University of Basrah, Dr. Aqeel Fadhil Al-Dahan, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing that the university celebrates a new cohort of graduates who acquired knowledge within its halls. He noted that the university achieved qualitative milestones in global rankings, scientific research, and reputable publishing during the current year, adding that the central ceremony serves as a message of unity uniting all university faculties under a single banner.
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Artistic and National Performances
The event featured a documentary film showcasing the history of the University of Basrah since its establishment and its key scientific and academic achievements, as well as a national operetta performed by students from the College of Fine Arts.
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Ceremony Conclusion
At the conclusion of the ceremony, awards were presented to top-ranking students, and commemorative photos were taken amidst an atmosphere of pride and celebration among the graduates and their families.
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Department of Media and Government Communication
