Publication Details
Abstract
This research explores the role of education, human capital development, and information and communication technology (ICT) in supporting economic growth and advancing the transition toward a digital economy in Iraq. The findings indicate that limited public spending and weak integration between educational institutions and productive sectors have constrained the developmental role of education, despite a relative improvement in some indicators related to innovation and scientific research. The analysis also reveals that the institutional and regulatory environment continues to suffer from inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and weak governance, which have negatively affected the effectiveness of development policies and investment attractiveness. The study concludes that knowledge economy indicators contribute positively to driving economic growth; however, structural challenges—such as excessive dependence on oil, weak institutions, and the emigration of skilled professionals—still pose significant obstacles to building a sustainable knowledge-based economy. Accordingly, the research suggests reforming the education system to align with labor market needs, increasing support for scientific research, expanding digital transformation initiatives, and improving the governance environment to ensure economic diversification and enhance future growth prospects.