Dr. Abd Dhiyab Al-Ajili

Former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research – Republic of Iraq

Dr. Abd Dhiyab Al-Ajili is an accomplished Iraqi academic, administrator, and public leader whose career spans more than three decades in higher education and public service. His professional life reflects a rare blend of scholarly expertise, policy leadership, and steadfast advocacy for academic freedom in times of national challenge.

University Career

Before entering government, Dr. Al-Ajili served in various academic roles, contributing to curriculum development, faculty training, and the modernization of teaching methods. His work often emphasized bridging global best practices with the needs and traditions of Iraqi higher education. He was known among colleagues and students for his methodical thinking, openness to dialogue, and commitment to merit-based advancement in academia.

Academic Formation

Dr. Al-Ajili began his academic path in the United Kingdom, where he specialized in the field of operations research—a discipline that applies analytical methods to decision-making and problem-solving. He earned both his Bachelor of Science (1976) and Master of Science (1977) degrees from the University of Southampton. Seeking to advance his expertise, he later pursued doctoral research at Keele University, obtaining his PhD in 1990. His academic training gave him a strong foundation in data analysis, strategic planning, and complex systems management—skills that would later influence his approach to national education policy.

Ministerial Leadership

In the mid-2000s, Dr. Al-Ajili was appointed Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Republic of Iraq. His tenure coincided with a period of significant political instability and security challenges, yet he remained focused on safeguarding the operations of universities, improving research infrastructure, and maintaining academic standards.
He worked on initiatives to:

Expand access to higher education for students from underserved regions.
Strengthen ties between Iraqi universities and international institutions.
Advocate for increased investment in research and faculty development.

Advocacy During Crisis

Dr. Al-Ajili became a prominent voice in the defense of Iraqi academics when the country faced a troubling wave of targeted attacks against scholars and scientists. He consistently spoke out—both domestically and abroad—about the need to protect the academic community as a cornerstone of national rebuilding. His statements underscored that the loss of intellectual leaders posed a long-term risk to Iraq’s social and economic stability.

Legacy and Ongoing Influence

Today, Dr. Al-Ajili is remembered for his balanced perspective as both a scholar and a policymaker. His leadership demonstrates how academic expertise can be applied to national governance, particularly in sectors that shape the country’s future. He remains a respected figure in discussions about educational reform, research advancement, and the role of universities in post-conflict recovery.