KRG Education Ministry Updates Over 30 Textbooks, Unveils Vocational Education Reform
The Kurdistan Regional Government's Ministry of Education has completed revisions to more than 30 school textbooks and announced a broad initiative to modernize vocational education as part of efforts to improve the quality and relevance of the region's education system.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Minister of Education Alan Hama Saeed said the ministry carries out an annual review of school curricula to ensure educational materials remain current and effective. This year's review resulted in updates to more than 30 textbooks used across all grade levels, from first grade through the 12th grade.
According to the minister, the revised textbooks will be printed and distributed to schools before the beginning of the 2026–2027 academic year, allowing students to start the new school year with the updated materials.
The ministry is also preparing a comprehensive overhaul of vocational education programs. Hama Saeed said the reforms will cover more than 30 vocational specializations currently offered in schools and institutes throughout the Kurdistan Region.
The planned changes are designed to better align vocational education with labor market demands by equipping students with practical skills and preparing a new generation of qualified academic and technical professionals capable of addressing workforce shortages in key sectors.
Looking ahead to the new academic year, the minister announced that the Kurdistan Region's Council of Education Ministers will meet in September to approve the official academic calendar. The meeting will determine the opening date of schools, public holidays, and examination schedules for both graduating and non-graduating students for the 2026–2027 school year.
