Introduction
As the economy of Iraq in general and Kurdistan in specific is at the forefront of extensive growth, the necessity to educate and develop a qualified workforce to compete on an international level is paramount. Significant investments have taken place recently in education which have rapidly increased the number of students. To help meet these emerging demands in education and address market needs, the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization (TAG-Org) proposed a unique approach to utilize its experiences in business, education, and technology in building a premier higher education institution in Erbil specialized in business and technology.

TAG-Org envisions Talal Abu-Ghazaleh University (TAG University) with a role to offer relevant undergraduate and graduate degrees in variety of disciplines in business and technology. The goal is to achieve high level of quality in education and research, international cooperation, rich interaction and partnerships with enterprises.

TAG University aims to contribute to building local workforce while providing world class educational opportunities. In order to strengthen its position in the regional and global economy, Iraq needs to produce highly trained individuals in the emerging business and technical fields. The unrivaled quality of TAG University education will not only lead to progress in Kurdistan- Iraq, but it will also serve as an icon within the country. Through the establishment of a comprehensive educational system in business and technical fields, TAG University has the opportunity to train the future leaders of the Iraqi global economy.


Overview:
TAG University represents a significant opportunity to leapfrog in technology education and to join efforts with international organizations such as the UNESCO and the UN Global Compact, to help develop Arab knowledge-based societies, foster quality education, and build relevant knowledge while promoting socio-economic development in the Arab world.

Excellence is not easily achieved; however, TAG University is fortunate to have the financial support and resources of TAG-Org; the largest firm of professional services in the Arab world, with over 71 offices and 180 correspondent offices worldwide. TAG-Org is committed to making TAG University elite and outstanding.

The programs and courses at TAG University have been developed with the global economy in mind by some of the most respected and renowned figures in academia to meet the highest international standards. All programs have been designed to bolster the advancement of knowledge with practical real-world applications and through the case study and practice oriented approach to education. This places TAG University in a league of its own.

TAG University’s aim is to prepare students for leadership positions in the fields of business and technology. The College is dedicated to always develop new programs that help our graduates meet the demands of the ever-changing global economy.

Objective:
TAG University aims to create an internationally competitive, private higher education institution, modeled after premier Western colleges that prepare future leaders.

TAG University is designed to train the next generation of academic, business, and world leaders by offering high quality business and technical degree programs with plans for the future development of additional academic disciplines. As a premier college attracting the most highly qualified students from across Iraq and the greater region, TAG University will contribute to research, development needs of the nation, prepare students to participate in the emerging fields of modern technology and enable students access an elite higher education institution in their country.

With a strong focus on skills in leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation, critical thinking and new technologies, TAG University will train students capable of competing within the global community. Along with rigorous, diverse and innovative academic programs, TAG University students will enjoy a flourishing campus and rewarding student life. Its unique academic environment and state-of-the-art facilities attract world-renowned faculties to further strengthen the impressive educational opportunities available at TAG University.

In addition to creating a premier higher education institution and bringing world-class academic faculty to Erbil, TAG University intends to establish academic partnerships and initiate funding strategies to ensure long-term financial sustainability and growth. TAG-Org has extensive networks within the public, private and non-profit sectors to develop effective partnerships with local, regional and international stakeholders.

The growing labor market in Kurdistan in particular and Iraq in general along with the TAG University potentials provide an incentive for further investment and partnerships. TAG University will be a pioneer model and it is our vision that TAG University serves as an elite institution educating students to play a significant role in developing creative business, technology, and design solutions to local and global issues.

Coordination Developments

The following are the coordination developments with the Kurdistan Ministry of Higher Education:
 In September 2007 – communication began with Kurdistan Board of Investment on a possibility to establish TAG University in a governmental land of 25,000 Square Meter.

 In September, October 2008 – a proposal for establishing TAG University has been submitted to Kurdistan MoHE and Investment Board, along with the Campus design, layout, buildings, and a technical report for a complete setup of TAG University.

 In March 2009 – A complete information package has been submitted to MoHE with information on the degree programs, curricula, and structural organization of TAG University – as was requested by MoHE.

 In April 2, 2009 – During his visit to Amman – Jordan, the Kurdistan Minister of HE was briefed on TAG University project and an implementation plan.

 In May 31, 2009 – The Kurdistan council of ministers issued an approval to establish TAG University in Erbil in compliance with laws and regulations of the HE system in Kurdistan. TAG University has to provide urgently the information relevant to the proposed programs, admission requirements, study plans, tuition and fees, implementation plan, suggested faculty and staff with their Curriculum Vita.

 In July 1, 2009 –Consultations with the Kurdistan MoHE with briefings and discussions with the Minister – Dr. Idris Hadi, Director of Private Education – Dr. Nouri Razani, and Accreditation director . The MoHE is highly supportive of TAG University project, finding it to be a good contribution to Kurdistan Higher Education, and support of MoHE goals and objectives.