Iraq’s Labor Ministry Secures New Benefits for People with Disabilities, Including Tuition Waivers
Baghdad announces new tuition waivers, expanded access for students with disabilities
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs announced new benefits on Wednesday for students with disabilities, including tuition waivers and expanded access to education under a series of reforms aimed at fostering inclusion.
Students with disabilities classified as having 70% or higher impairment will be fully exempt from tuition fees at public universities, while those attending private colleges will receive a 50% reduction in fees, the ministry said. The measures align with Law No. 38 of 2013, which guarantees the rights of persons with disabilities and special needs.
“These new measures are part of our ongoing commitment to implementing Law No. 38 of 2013, in cooperation with the Ministries of Education and Higher Education,” said Raed Jabbar Bahidh, Director General of the Department of Planning and Monitoring at the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. He emphasized ongoing collaboration with other ministries to ensure comprehensive support for students with disabilities.
The reforms include provisions to admit older students—aged 10 to 12—who missed enrolling in special education classes at the standard entry age of six. Starting with the 2024-2025 academic year, these students will be allowed to join the education system without restrictions. Additionally, waiting periods for students with disabilities seeking to take external exams have been eliminated across all academic levels, removing barriers to their progression.
Free seats at private schools will also be offered to eligible students under the new initiatives, the ministry said, in partnership with the Ministry of Education.
The classification of disability rates—used to determine eligibility for these benefits—assesses the extent to which an individual’s impairment affects daily functioning. Specialized medical committees evaluate factors such as the type of impairment, its impact on daily tasks, and the need for accommodations or assistance.
“These initiatives reflect our dedication to improving access to education for students with disabilities,” Bahidh said, noting that the measures aim to create an inclusive academic environment across Iraq.
The ministry stated that students classified with a 70% disability rate or higher will continue to receive exemptions or fee reductions until the end of their academic programs.