Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), officially inaugurated the 2025-2026 academic year on Monday by ringing the ceremonial bell at the Damdam Primary School in Zakho.

In a speech marking the occasion, Premier Barzani extended his congratulations to students, teachers, and parents across the region. He expressed his hope for a successful and joyful year, while paying special tribute to the resilience of the education sector.

The Prime Minister delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude to the teaching staff, acknowledging their perseverance through significant challenges. "I greatly appreciate our valued teachers who, despite all obstacles, hardships, and unpaid salaries, continued to teach," Barzani stated. "These patriotic, nation-loving, and dedicated teachers never allowed education to stop or let students be deprived of learning."

He praised them as "true examples of dedicated and patriotic people" for their unwavering commitment to their sacred duty.

Barzani also thanked parents for their crucial role in supporting their children's education, stating that their efforts ensure "the future and legacy of our people can flourish." He expressed his firm belief that the students of today will become the leaders who "lead our country to a better stage."

The ceremony held added significance as it coincided with the anniversary of Zakho's autonomous administration. The Premier commended the city's progress, noting its reputation as a "progressive city throughout Kurdistan, Iraq, and the region." He announced several upcoming development projects for Zakho, including the opening of a children's hospital, an international exhibition, and the second phase of the Zakho Corniche.

Highlighting his government's investments in education, Barzani pointed to "a historic achievement" in digitizing educational data across the region, allowing for decisions based on scientific data. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to improve student engagement through electronic systems, calling these advancements "a model example in the Middle East."

Furthermore, the KRG Premier noted that over the past years, more than 200 new schools have been built and nearly 2,000 others renovated across the Kurdistan Region, with a pledge to continue these efforts.

In his concluding remarks, Barzani emphasized the importance of nurturing patriotism and environmental conservation in the educational curriculum. He called for relationships between students and teachers to be founded on "love and respect, not fear and coercion," and urged everyone to work together for a more developed and prosperous Kurdistan.