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First Class Graduates From American University of Baghdad, Once Saddam's Palace

The American University of Baghdad held its first graduation ceremony on May 24, 2025, at the al-Faw Palace campus in Baghdad, Iraq.
The university was established in 2021 on the site of a former palace built by Saddam Hussein in the 1990s, later used as a U.S. Military base after 2003.
Thirty-Eight students graduated with degrees in business administration, sciences, and humanities, as families, faculty, and political leaders attended the event.
University founder Saadi Saihood described the graduation as a meaningful event that underscores the lasting foundation and impactful mission of the institution, while also noting President Dr. Michael Mulnix’s reflections on the university’s difficult early days.
Though Iraq’s security has improved, graduates face economic challenges and limited government jobs, but the university aims to prepare students to succeed in private-sector roles and entrepreneurship.

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The West Australian

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First university class graduates from Saddam's palace

The grandiose palace of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein provided the backdrop for the first students to graduate from the American University of Baghdad.

6 hours ago·Australia

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The Record

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First class graduates from American University of Baghdad, once Saddam’s palace

BAGHDAD (AP) — The American University of Baghdad celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of students Saturday at a campus that was once a palace built by Saddam Hussein.

6 hours ago·Waterloo, Canada

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Winnipeg Free Press

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First class graduates from American University of Baghdad, once Saddam's palace

Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada

6 hours ago·Winnipeg, Canada

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Morning Sun

First class graduates from American University of Baghdad, once Saddam's palace - The Morning Sun

BAGHDAD (AP) — The American University of Baghdad celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of students Saturday at a campus that was once a palace built by Saddam Hussein. Officials said they hope the graduation will mark the beginning of a new era in higher education in Iraq rooted in modernity, openness and international academic standards. The university was inaugurated in 2021 on the site of the al-Faw Palace, built on an island in the …

6 hours ago·Pittsburg, United States

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