First in Iraq and Second in the Middle East: AHU Licensed as an Approved Centre of the UK’s National Open College Network (NOCN)
Mosul, Iraq -- September 2026 - In a new achievement that strengthens its academic and training standing, Al-Hadba University has been granted a licence as an approved centre of the National Open College Network (NOCN) Group, the UK awarding organisation, becoming the first university in Iraq and the second in the Middle East to obtain this recognition.
🌐 A Strategic Step Towards International Partnership
This achievement forms part of Al-Hadba University’s strategy to expand its international partnerships, strengthen its presence beyond national borders, and consolidate its position as a university that seeks out global programmes and experience and places them at the service of its students, its graduates, and the wider community.
🔎 What the Approval Means
As an NOCN-approved centre, the University is now able to:
✅ Deliver Accredited Training: Offer NOCN professional training programmes for graduates and non-graduates in fields demanded by the labour market.
✅ Award Recognised Certificates: Provide learners with professional certificates recognised in both Iraq and the United Kingdom.
✅ Bridge Education and Employment: Equip graduates with practical, market-relevant skills that complement their academic qualifications.
✅ Serve the Community: Open its training provision to the wider community of Mosul and Nineveh, not only to its own students.
🤝 A Regional Milestone
The licence places Al-Hadba University in a distinctive position:
- The first university in Iraq to be licensed as an NOCN-approved centre.
- The second institution in the Middle East to obtain this recognition.
- A new gateway for internationally recognised professional qualifications in northern Iraq.
🏫 Beyond the Academic Degree
The approval reflects the University’s conviction that its role does not end with awarding an academic degree, but extends to preparing graduates, developing their skills, and opening new career pathways for them in line with the needs of the labour market.
🚀 A Wider International Horizon
Al-Hadba University: first in Iraq and second in the Middle East, and a new step towards a broader international academic and training space.
👉 A Strategic Commitment:
Al-Hadba University remains committed to attracting world-class programmes and partnerships and turning them into tangible opportunities for its students, graduates, and community.
👉 Stay Connected:
For more updates on Al-Hadba University’s international partnerships and training programmes, visit our website or follow us on social media.
📸 More Coverage:
To view more photos and additional coverage of this achievement, 👉 Click here.
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