The American University of Iraq-Baghdad (AUIB) signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Iraqi Academy for Anti-Corruption of the Federal Commission of Integrity, aimed at raising the scientific competencies of the two institutions’ staff, exchanging academic and professional expertise, and developing educational and training programs that contribute to building the capacities of those working in the field of combating corruption.
The agreement, signed by AUIB President Dr. Bradley Cook and Director General of the Iraqi Academy for Anti-Corruption Dr. Moataz Faisal Al-Abbasi, stipulates that the university will provide specialized training courses to develop skills in building and managing digital libraries and to introduce trainees to mechanisms of digital research. It also provides for cooperation in supporting postgraduate studies addressing issues of corruption and illicit gain, as well as the preparation of joint applied research in the fields of combating corruption and promoting integrity.
The agreement further includes strengthening cooperation between the Commission of Integrity and AUIB’s College of Law by encouraging students to participate in preparing applied research and studies on related topics, and by granting the Commission access to the university’s various academic resources, particularly digital ones. It also states that AUIB will develop continuing education programs for Commission staff, covering the latest legal and administrative practices in combating corruption, offering accredited training certificates. Moreover, both parties agreed to jointly organize conferences, seminars, and workshops on a range of related issues.
“Today’s signing formalizes a strategic partnership between AUIB and the Academy, reflecting our shared commitment to strengthening scientific capacity, integrity, and anti-corruption efforts in Iraq,” said President Cook at the signing ceremony, adding: “We look forward to advancing knowledge exchange, practical training, and institutional development. This collaboration marks an important step toward stronger institutions, transparency, and accountability in Iraq.”
President of the Commission of Integrity, Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, affirmed in his speech at the signing ceremony that the system of corruption continues to evolve and update its methods, and it is therefore necessary to confront it with modern approaches by drawing on the outcomes of academic studies. He highlighted the efforts undertaken by the Academy in this regard, including relevant scientific initiatives and the introduction of a higher diploma program in fields related to combating corruption, as well as the efforts of the Commission’s other departments in the areas of raising awareness and prevention, and in incorporating concepts of integrity and protection of public funds into school curricula. He praised the cooperation agreement with AUIB, considering it a significant contribution to the development of the Academy.