UOD – July, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) – At the University of Duhok, the graduation photo session is a milestone marking the transformation of students into professionals. Recently, 11 Graduates from the College of City and Regional Planning, along with their lecturers, gathered at the Central Library to celebrate their graduation milestone, a milestone that took 5 years of hard work and dedication to reach.

The College offers two specialized undergraduate programs: the Department of Spatial Planning and the Department of City Planning. Central to the College's international identity is the Spatial Planning Joint BSc Program, delivered in collaboration with TU Dortmund University. Through a shared curriculum, joint examination regulations, and the supervision of academic staff from both universities, students earn a Joint Bachelor of Science in Spatial Planning, recognized both nationally and internationally.

About the College

Established in 2012 through a DAAD-funded partnership with TU Dortmund University (Germany), this program offers a truly international curriculum. These graduates have navigated a shared Module Manual, joint exam regulations, and have benefited from the direct supervision of professors from both Duhok and Dortmund. The result is a Joint Certificate in Bachelor of Science in Spatial Planning, accredited both locally and internationally.

Celebrating a New Class of Planners

This year’s graduating class consists of 11 dedicated students who have spent five years mastering the spatial arrangement of living, working, and environmental conditions. Defining highlights of their journey was the Summer School in Germany program during their third stage. There, they experienced the German planning system firsthand at TU Dortmund and explored the education system, the infrastructure, transportation planning, and urban history across various German cities.

A Legacy of Excellence in Planning Education

Equipped with this cross-cultural expertise, these graduates are prepared to enter high-growth fields, including:

• Urban and Regional Renewal
• Environmental & Climate Change Mitigation
• International Development Cooperation
• Housing and Real Estate Development

Voices of the Graduates

To capture the essence of this journey, we spoke with some of our graduates during their photo session:

"Graduating from the University of Duhok means achieving an important goal and starting an entirely new chapter in my life," one graduate, Govand Nawzad Mohammed, shared.

Govand continued by reflecting on her technical growth, the college's active and collaborative ecosystem shaped her capabilities.

"I significantly improved my spatial planning and GIS skills through hands-on projects and intensive teamwork. Working on complex planning projects and participating in field visits were undoubtedly the most memorable parts of my journey. Now, I am looking forward to gaining practical experience, starting my professional career, and securing a job where I can directly apply my spatial planning background."

Another graduate, Kocher Izzat Abdi Haji, shared a message for the next generation:

“Graduating represents pride, immense achievement, and the beginning of a journey toward making a positive impact on society. One of the most valuable competencies I gained was learning how to analyze complex urban challenges and develop practical, sustainable planning solutions through rigorous teamwork and field research."

Looking toward immediate labor market integration, Kochar has mapped out a distinct professional pathway:

"In the coming year, I see myself contributing to the tourism and development sector, with a specific focus on heritage conservation and participatory planning. I want to work on projects that preserve our historical and cultural spaces while actively involving local communities in the planning process to promote regional growth."

Meanwhile, another graduate, Midya Ahmed Yousif Abdulaziz, shared her thoughts by saying:

“The joint international framework broadened my perspective on sustainable urban governance. Participating in the summer school program in Germany was a defining moment. It exposed me to a different culture and a structured planning system where decisions are backed by strict regulations and public participation."

Midya also highlighted how group dynamics enhanced her communication and leadership skills. Driven by previous experience assisting displaced communities in camp settings, she is passionate about social impact:

"I see myself working in an office or organization where planning is not just technical, but responds directly to people's daily challenges. Graduating from UoD means turning years of effort into real action, ready to make a meaningful difference."

The views from another graduate, Chinar Qassim Simo, reflected the following:

"The communication, teamwork, time management, and practical knowledge skills I developed during my time at the College stand out the most. The Summer School in Germany was the experience that defined my journey. It gave me international exposure, helped me meet people from different cultures, and truly broadened my perspective."

Describing the college environment as supportive, collaborative, welcoming, and driven by a strong sense of community among students and staff, Chinar looks forward to utilizing her training for local development.

"Graduating from the University of Duhok is a proud achievement that marks the beginning of a new professional journey. I hope to be working as a planner, using my knowledge and skills to help improve our communities and directly contribute to the sustainable development of my community and city."

Beyond the Smiling Faces

Every photograph captured not only smiles and achievements but also the friendships, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences that shaped the graduates' university journey.

More than a collection of portraits, the gallery reflects the beginning of a new chapter for the Class of 2026 as they prepare to apply their knowledge and skills in shaping sustainable cities and communities. It stands as a lasting tribute to their perseverance and the shared memories created throughout their years at the College of City and Regional Planning.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GRADUATION PHOTO GALLERY

University Press Office – July, 2026

Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Aland Kamal Othman
Photography: Ali Habib Habib, Mohammed A. Tahar., Harman Jangeer Ahmed, Mehvan M. Salih