REINFORCING INTEGRATION OF SKILLS FOR EMPLOYABILITY AND INTERNATIONALISATION IN NORTH IRAQ

This study examines the role of governance and internationalization in addressing employability challenges within higher education in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a specific focus on North Iraq. Despite ongoing reforms, high youth unemployment—particularly among graduates—highlights persistent gaps between higher education outcomes and labor market needs. These challenges are intensified by political instability, financial limitations, and increasing student populations in the region.The paper analyzes the EU-funded RISE (Reinforcement of Internationalisation and Employability) project, launched in 2025, which aims to strengthen institutional capacity and promote sustainable socio-economic development through higher education. Adoptinga participatory, bottom-up approach, the project emphasizes the roles of International Relations Offices and Career Development Centres in enhancing both internationalization and employability.RISE is structured around three core pillars: strategic integration, capacity building, and operational implementation. These include the development of institutional roadmaps, targeted training programs, and practical initiatives such as mobility events and entrepreneurial competitions. The project highlights the importance of integrating global perspectives and entrepreneurial skills into university systems.The findings suggest that strengthening governance structures and fostering international collaboration can significantly improve graduate employability and institutional effectiveness. The study concludes that higher education can act as a driver of sustainable development when aligned with labor market demands and supported by inclusive, innovation-driven strategies