• Next Step Theme 2025: “Leading the Next Generation Towards a Brighter Future: Quality Education, Workforce Skills, and Artificial Intelligence”

Next Step: The region’s pioneer education and career development platform, Next Step Educational Fair and Conference, returns this year at the Sulaimani Cultural Factory, reaffirming its role as the premier bridge between students, universities, and institutions.

Since its inception in 2023, Next Step has grown into a milestone event for high school graduates and university seekers across Kurdistan and Iraq. In 2024, the fair welcomed over 11,000 students, with 6,000 staying for more than three hours of workshops, panels, and meetings with universities. This year, organizers aim to welcome 15,000 visitors on site.

A cornerstone of the fair is its scholarship program. From last year's scholarship opportunities, 10 students are already pursuing studies at the universities. In 2025, the fair will expand this initiative by offering more than 40 new scholarships, providing students with pathways to study both locally and internationally.

A Platform for Students and Institutions

• For Students: Student will receive direct access to universities, scholarship providers, expert advice on admissions, financial aid, career planning, access to panels and workshops through attending the fair. In partnership with Higher Ministry of Education and Scientific Research of Kurdistan Regional Government, students will gain direct support for Zankoline admission process, through dedicated expert team. 
• For Institutions: A unique opportunity to meet motivated and potential students, showcase academic programs, meet with educational stakeholders, and engage with the future generation of leaders.

Next Step 2025 includes:

• Academic Roundtable: Hosting a roundtable with high ranked officials, educational experts, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the importance of quality education, workforce skills, and Artificial Intelligence to produce a policy paper on the future of higher education in KRG and Iraq.
• Special Panel Discussions and Workshops: Focused sessions to guide students in selecting universities and programs, while addressing global trends aligned with the theme of the fair.
• Sustainable Development Initiatives: Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the fair features a strengthened sustainability track across exhibitions, panel discussions, workshops, and motivational sessions.

Open Access for Media

To ensure maximum visibility and transparency, Next Step 2025 is open to all media outlets – local, regional, and international, without restrictions or exclusive sponsorships.

• Broadcast Support: Clean SD and HD feeds (without logos) and a direct audio line will be provided, particularly for panel discussions.
• On-Site Studios: TV channels may request a 3x3 meter space to install their own studios for live coverage.
• Press Lounge: Dedicated space for interviews, photo opportunities, and live updates.

Sustainable, Inclusive, and Future-Focused

Next Step 2025 integrates the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: Expanding education with digital literacy and AI integration.
• SDG 8 – Decent Work & Economic Growth: Preparing the next generation with future-ready skills.
• SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure: Leveraging AI and technology for sustainable growth.
• SDG 13 – Climate Action: Using innovation and awareness to support climate resilience.
• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening global and local partnerships for education, technology, and sustainability.

“Next Step is more than a fair; it is a movement of empowerment,” said Amanj Ali, Founder of Next Step. “With more than 40 scholarships to be announced and over 15,000 visitors expected this year, we are proud to provide students with the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to shape their future، and to give institutions a platform to directly influence the next generation.”

Event Details

• Date: September 28-30, 2025
  Venue: Sulaimani Cultural Factory
  Theme: “Leading the Next Generation Towards a Brighter Future: Quality Education, Workforce Skills, and Artificial Intelligence”
  Motto: Next Step is Your Big Step