University of Duhok, June 23, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

The University of Duhok held the graduation photo session for fourth-year students of the College of Nursing, celebrating a new generation of healthcare professionals prepared to contribute to the advancement of healthcare services in the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

The occasion marks an important milestone in the academic journey of the graduating students, recognizing four years of dedication, practical training, and scientific learning that have prepared them to serve patients, families, and communities with professionalism and compassion.

A College Committed to Excellence in Nursing Education

The College of Nursing was established on 1 November 2007, and the first cohort of students was admitted during the 2007–2008 academic year. Students who successfully complete the four-year program are awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing.

The college believes in achieving excellence and leadership while contributing to the advancement of healthcare standards. Through research-oriented approaches, the college actively participates in education, knowledge production, and scientific advancement at local, national, and international levels while maintaining high academic quality.

The college develops modern educational experiences based on evidence-based learning and the enhancement of critical thinking skills, strengthening students’ abilities in participation, advocacy, research, and collaboration.

Scientific Departments and Academic Programs

The College of Nursing currently includes four scientific departments:

• Department of Community Health and Psychiatric Nursing
• Department of Maternal and Pediatric Nursing
• Department of Adult Nursing and Fundamentals of Nursing
• Department of Basic Medical Sciences

The curriculum and educational programs are designed according to the latest scientific developments and the healthcare needs of the Kurdistan Region. Educational programs are continuously updated to address the evolving demands of modern healthcare and nursing practice.

Practical Training and Clinical Experience

A key strength of the College of Nursing is its strong emphasis on practical education and clinical training. The educational curriculum addresses major community healthcare needs, particularly nursing and patient care services, ensuring that students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

Students receive clinical training in a variety of healthcare institutions throughout Duhok Governorate, enabling them to develop professional competencies in real healthcare environments before graduation.

Strong Partnerships Supporting Student Success

The College of Nursing maintains close scientific and administrative cooperation with several colleges at the University of Duhok, including the Colleges of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences.

The college also enjoys strong collaboration with the healthcare sector in Duhok Governorate, particularly Azadi Teaching Hospital, which serves as the primary center for clinical nursing education and student training. Additional training opportunities are provided through emergency hospitals, maternity and pediatric hospitals, burn and plastic surgery hospitals, and various healthcare centers.

Internationally, the college has established a successful partnership with Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and the non-governmental organization ISPO. Over the past four years, this collaboration has contributed significantly to curriculum enhancement, particularly in clinical and practical education.

The partnership has resulted in numerous workshops, conferences, and training courses conducted both within and outside the Kurdistan Region. Students have particularly benefited from the innovative Tutorship and Mentorship Program, an advanced educational model implemented in several countries, including Italy, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Preparing Graduates for Diverse Healthcare Careers

Graduates of the College of Nursing are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed to work in a wide range of healthcare settings. Career opportunities include hospitals, primary healthcare centers, specialized medical facilities, community health organizations, educational institutions, and research environments.

Through a combination of academic excellence, clinical experience, and professional development, graduates are prepared to play a vital role in improving healthcare services and promoting community well-being.

Celebrating Achievement and a New Beginning

The graduation photo session represents a memorable moment for fourth-year students as they celebrate the successful completion of their studies and prepare to embark on their professional careers.

Surrounded by their classmates, faculty members, and college leadership, the graduates commemorate the culmination of four years of hard work and dedication while looking forward to the opportunities and responsibilities that await them in the healthcare profession.

View the Graduation Photo Gallery

We invite students, families, alumni, and members of the community to explore the graduation photo gallery and celebrate the achievements of the College of Nursing graduates.

Click here to view the graduation photos

Editor's Note: This article is part of a series covering student graduations at the University of Duhok and will be updated with additional information.

University Press Office, June 23, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Berin Saadullah Ibrahim

Photography by:

• Ali Habib Habib
• Mohammed A. Tahar
• Harman Jangeer Ahmed
• Mehvan M. Salih