UOD, April 28, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

In a meaningful demonstration of environmental responsibility and civic engagement, 30 fourth-year students from the Department of Sociology at the College of Humanities, University of Duhok (UOD) have once again carried forward their inspiring pre-graduation tradition—planting olive trees within the gardens of the College of Humanities. The event was attended by the college Dean, Dr. Saed Khudeida Alo and staff members. This initiative, supervised by Dr. Zubaida Salih Abdulkhaliq, Head of the Department of Sociology, reflects UOD’s strategic commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and green campus.

A Living Symbol of Academic Journey and Environmental Stewardship

As students prepare to transition from academic life to professional pathways, each olive tree planted stands as a living symbol of their intellectual growth, resilience, and connection to the university environment. The olive tree—deeply rooted in the cultural and ecological heritage of the Kurdistan Region—represents peace, sustainability, and continuity, aligning closely with UOD’s vision for responsible global citizenship.

Advancing UOD’s Strategic Vision for Sustainability

This student-led initiative directly contributes to the University’s broader goals of:

• Promoting environmental sustainability and green campus development
• Encouraging student-led community engagement and leadership
• Integrating practical, value-driven activities into academic life
• Supporting awareness of climate change, biodiversity, and ecological responsibility

Multi-Dimensional Impact: Social, Cultural, and Economic Value

The olive tree planting initiative extends beyond environmental action, offering a multidimensional impact:

Social Impact:
By actively participating in tree planting, students cultivate a deeper sense of responsibility, teamwork, and civic engagement, reinforcing collaborative values essential for future leadership roles.

Cultural Impact:
As ambassadors of knowledge and awareness, students contribute to fostering a culture of environmental consciousness within society, encouraging sustainable behaviors and long-term ecological thinking.

Economic Relevance:
Agriculture has historically been a cornerstone of livelihoods in the Kurdistan Region. By engaging with this sector symbolically, students are encouraged to explore innovative opportunities in sustainable agriculture, green entrepreneurship, and rural development.

Student Leadership and Contribution

A special note of appreciation is extended to fourth-year student Zana Adnan Mohammed, whose initiative in providing this year’s olive saplings exemplifies student leadership, generosity, and commitment to sustainability values. Knowing that 280 trees have been planted so far at the College of Humanities.

The University of Duhok proudly celebrates its students whose actions reflect the institution’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and community impact.

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University Press Office, April 28, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Zubaida Salih Abdulkhaliq,
Photography: Jalal Ibraheem Saleem

The Keywords:

• University of Duhok sustainability
• Student tree planting initiative
• Green campus
• Olive tree tradition university
• UOD community engagement