The Tomooh Scholarship Program, funded by PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation, has launched in Iraq to support Baghdad Business School (BBS). The program will benefit 75 students enrolled in BBS’s one-year program, equipping Iraqi youth with essential skills for entry-level roles in the private sector.
In addition to scholarships, funding will enhance the BBS curriculum with emerging business fields such as agribusiness, green and clean technologies, and climate-smart solutions, equipping students with critical skills to address local challenges. The initiative will also offer internships, organize site visits to green tech companies, green competitions, and support the development of innovative business concepts, ensuring students are better prepared for careers in climate-focused and private sector roles.
The BBS program includes intensive Professional English instruction, Business Fundamentals, Computer Skills, Professional Development, and Career Planning to prepare students for the workforce. With four cohorts of graduates to date, the program boasts 97% employment or starting their own businesses within three months of graduation, with more than 40% of BBS graduates being women.
“Baghdad Business School is thrilled to receive this support from the Tomooh Scholarship Program,” said Christine van den Toorn, BBS Director and Founder. “Tomooh has an outstanding reputation in the region, and we look forward to working together to strengthen our program and provide more educational opportunities for Iraqi youth, especially women.”
“This initiative reflects PepsiCo’s commitment to empowering youth through education,” said Rona Halabi, Head of Communications at PepsiCo Middle East. “Through the Tomooh Scholarship Program, we are proud to support Baghdad Business School and help Iraqi students gain the skills and opportunities they need to achieve their goals and build successful futures.”
First launched in 2006 in Lebanon, the Tomooh Scholarship Program has supported over 4,000 university students who demonstrate academic excellence. Expanding to Iraq continues the program’s success, showing PepsiCo’s dedication to supporting youth in the region.
About the PepsiCo Foundation
The PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, invests in the essential elements of a sustainable food system with a mission to support thriving communities. Working with non-profits and experts around the globe, we're focused on helping communities obtain access to food security, safe water, and economic opportunity. We strive for tangible impact in the places where we live and work—collaborating with industry peers, local and international organizations, and our employees to affect large-scale change on the issues that matter to us and are of global importance. Learn more at www.pepsicofoundation.com.
BBS Website (www.bbs.iq)
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