STEP Magazine
On December 11th, Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) and the University of Zakho in Kurdistan formalized a transformative partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This collaboration marks a significant step forward, establishing a foundation for a mutually beneficial program that facilitates international exchanges and cultural enrichment for both students and faculty.
The vision for this partnership was initiated by Jihan Brifki, a consultant for the Kurdistani diaspora confederation in the United States and Canada. While working independently on various educational and environmental projects, including the Earth Partnership initiative, Jihan conceived the idea of connecting the academic communities of Kurdistan and the United States. She presented her vision to Dr. Sattar Haji, Dean of the College of Education at the University of Zakho, and together they worked diligently to bring the partnership to life.
During Dr. Jabbar Haji’s visit to Moorhead, Minnesota, for a series of training sessions, he toured the MSUM campus and shared his aspirations for collaboration. This visit, alongside Jihan’s unwavering support, was pivotal in moving the initiative forward. After months of hard work, discussions, and planning, this MOU is now a reality, opening doors to new opportunities for the University of Zakho.
A Gateway to New Opportunities
The partnership with MSUM provides the University of Zakho with access to a diverse array of academic resources and opportunities. MSUM offers an impressive selection of programs, including 73 majors, 55 emphases and options, 12 pre-professional studies, 15 graduate degrees, and 40 certificates. This extensive academic foundation serves as a valuable resource for collaboration, offering Kurdish students and educators an opportunity to engage with globally recognized teaching methods and research practices.
One of the key goals of this partnership is to align the University of Zakho’s academic standards with those of MSUM, particularly in terms of accreditation. Jihan Brifki emphasizes the importance of this alignment, noting that it will empower Kurdish graduates to leverage their degrees effectively in the global job market. “Achieving accreditation is crucial for Kurdish students to fully realize their potential,” she explains.
Strengthening Ties Through Global Collaboration
Jihan’s work to foster cross-border collaboration extends far beyond this partnership. She has been actively engaged with several universities in Kurdistan, promoting the adoption of American educational models to better prepare students for a competitive global future. Collaborations with influential figures such as Dr. Honar Issa, Secretary-General and President of the Kurdistan Accrediting Association for Education, and Dr. Issam from Salahaddin University further reflect her commitment to bringing Kurdish institutions into the global academic fold.
The partnership also envisions the establishment of faculty and student exchange programs, as well as joint conferences and research initiatives. With an inaugural conference scheduled to take place in Zakho, this collaboration will foster meaningful exchanges between the institutions, promoting shared learning and mutual growth.
Looking Ahead
For Jihan Brifki, this partnership represents more than just an academic agreement—it is a chance to redefine the educational landscape of Kurdistan. “I am genuinely excited to see our universities collaborate and share knowledge,” Jihan says. “This partnership is a monumental step forward, and I eagerly anticipate its positive impact on the future of higher education in Kurdistan.”
The ripple effects of this collaboration are already evident. With plans for educational exchanges, joint research projects, and community engagement initiatives underway, this partnership will continue to strengthen the bonds between Kurdistan and the United States. These efforts are designed to inspire future generations, cultivate innovation, and contribute to global sustainability.
Through her leadership and dedication, Jihan Brifki has been instrumental in creating a path for a brighter future for students in Kurdistan. The partnership between Minnesota State University Moorhead and the University of Zakho is not just a landmark achievement—it marks the beginning of a new chapter in educational collaboration, one that holds the promise of a brighter future for both institutions and their communities.
