UOD, July, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) – The University of Duhok proudly celebrates another milestone in the journey of its students as the College of Veterinary Medicine marks the graduation of a new cohort of future veterinarians. These photographs capture more than a graduation ceremony—they tell the story of determination, academic excellence, and the beginning of promising professional careers dedicated to animal health and public service.

A Legacy of Excellence in Veterinary Education

Established in 1996, the College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the University's leading academic institutions in veterinary education and scientific research. Located in Semel, approximately 14 kilometers from the University's main campus, the College offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including Bachelor's, Higher Diploma, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees. Through its modern laboratories, teaching clinics, and commitment to the Bologna Process, the College prepares graduates to serve the livestock, food safety, public health, and veterinary sectors while contributing to scientific research at both regional and international levels.

Celebrating a New Class of Veterinary Professionals

This year, the College celebrates the graduation of 60 students who have successfully completed a demanding five-year academic journey combining theoretical learning with intensive clinical and laboratory training. They join a distinguished network of 740 veterinarians who have graduated from the College across 25 graduating classes, while the College currently serves 316 enrolled students.

For these graduates, commencement represents not the end of their educational journey, but the beginning of careers devoted to protecting animal health, promoting public health, strengthening food security, and supporting sustainable agricultural development.

Preparing Graduates for Diverse Career Pathways

The College equips its graduates with the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in a wide range of professional fields. Career opportunities include veterinary hospitals and clinics, government institutions responsible for livestock development and zoonotic disease control, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, pharmaceutical and vaccine industries, scientific research, and food safety and quality assurance.

Student Voices: Aspirations Beyond Graduation

Behind every graduate is a story of perseverance, ambition, and personal growth. During the graduation photo session, several graduates reflected on their academic journey and shared their aspirations for the future.

Maryam Saeed George

"Throughout my journey in veterinary medicine, I learned that this profession goes beyond treatment; it has sculpted patience, critical thinking, and the ability to work with compassion and responsibility within me. My graduation today represents a moment of pride and the completion of an arduous journey. My joy is made whole by sharing it with my family and friends who supported me all the way. Now, I eagerly look forward to starting the next chapter of my life, applying my knowledge in real-world work environments that contribute to my professional and personal growth. Academically, my ambition drives me toward pursuing a Master’s degree in Biotechnology to bridge modern biological sciences with innovation in animal health and welfare. Finally, I advise future students to believe in themselves and their journey; every challenge you face is a genuine opportunity to become stronger and more distinguished."

Ziyad Luqman Othman

"My journey at the University of Duhok was a true transformative experience. It taught me that veterinary medicine is the language of silent life, which inspired me to create the 'Vet Pix' project to simplify complex concepts for my peers. Following that, my ambition crystallized into merging medical nutrition with innovative scientific research to publish studies that offer practical solutions serving both animal and human health. I do not view graduation as the end of the road, but rather the beginning of a greater mission through which I look forward to leaving a global footprint in the fields of medicine and physiology. I draw this strength from my experience of independence gained living away from home in university dorms—a journey that forged lifelong bonds of friendship and gratitude. In conclusion, I call upon future veterinarians to hold fast to passion and discipline, and to face all challenges with a resilient spirit that believes excellence and success are built step by step."

Mohammed Rajab Yaseen

"Veterinary medicine taught me to think like an investigative scientist, navigating through pathology and microbiology to trace pathogens and safeguard public health. My professional and institutional ambition is to see our profession receive the societal appreciation it truly deserves by establishing a veterinary emergency hospital and a regional research institute partnered with international universities, opening new horizons for graduates. From this perspective, I look forward with passion to transforming theoretical knowledge and lab/dissection room expertise into tangible, real-world contributions to disease diagnosis that leave a sustainable impact for future generations. This journey has been crowned with a graduation day that fills me with immense pride as I stand beside my family. Finally, I advise future students to cherish every piece of information they receive, for it could one day be a lifeline for a patient. Enjoy the ride!"

Suzyar Salah Mohammed

"During my journey, I discovered my passion and ultimate purpose in life: understanding the needs and caring for animals, as they are unable to speak, and improving their quality of life. My professional ambition centers on working in animal welfare and public awareness, helping society—especially children—treat these creatures with kindness. I also look forward to collaborating with government organizations and specialists to elevate animal welfare standards, combat the use of unsafe medicines and feeds, and support high-quality local animal products. My graduation is a defining milestone, crowned by walking across the stage of success and sharing my gratitude with my family, professors, and everyone who supported me. In conclusion, I advise future students to enjoy their journey, face mistakes with courage, and always interact within human standards with creatures that do not possess the capacity to complain."

Rayan Zuhair Khalid

"Throughout my academic years, I mastered complex knowledge and advanced diagnostics, and learned how to navigate high-pressure situations calmly and logically alongside my peers and professors. My professional ambition is to lead with excellence, managing successful teams and leveraging my technical skills to deliver innovative ideas that make a real, sustainable difference in my field. Now, I am excited to kickstart my full-time career, lead major projects, and build a strong network of professional relationships as I embark on my next thrilling chapter. Graduation represents a historic milestone, crowned by seeing the pride in my family’s eyes and sharing the stage with lifelong friends. Finally, my message to future students is to persevere and work together; pressure is temporary and builds your future, but the pride of graduation stays with you for life."

Radwan Ahmed Bashir

"During my years of study, I learned things that went far beyond veterinary medicine, including working under pressure and continuous self-development. My professional ambitions are directed toward academia and university teaching, fueled by a deep passion for genetics and contributing to research aimed at treating incurable diseases. Now, I look forward to starting my academic career as a lecturer, while simultaneously developing a smart technology innovation tailored for livestock farms to enhance food security and connect science with agricultural entrepreneurship. My graduation is a milestone where I celebrated success with my family and colleagues, where all the hardships vanished the moment I realized that the hard work had finally borne fruit. In conclusion, I advise future veterinarians to seize every opportunity and avoid unproductive arguments with professors, who always possess the wealth of knowledge and science. I wish for my generation to leave a lasting, positive impact."

Beyond the Smiling Faces

These photographs transcend being mere traditional documentation of graduation ceremonies; they are a visual archive capturing moments of ambition and the passion of perseverance. Behind every facial expression in these images lies the journey of a student who overcame the difficulties of specialized courses and the pressures of clinical training, transforming their attachment to veterinary medicine into a promising professional future. The photos also highlight the exceptional academic camaraderie that brought the graduates together with their professors and peers, ensuring that this extraordinary day remains etched in their hearts as a landmark event in their lives.

More Than a Graduation Ceremony

The graduation day brought together students, faculty members, families, and friends to celebrate years of dedication and achievement. Every photograph reflects not only academic success but also the friendships, mentorship, and unforgettable memories that shaped the graduates' university experience. These moments symbolize the transition from university life to professional practice and the beginning of new opportunities to serve society.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GRADUATION PHOTO GALLERY

University Press Office, July 19, 2026

Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Payman Fakhri Tahir
Photography: Ali Habib Habib, Mohammed A. Tahar. Harman Jangeer Ahmed, Mehvan M. Salih

News Keywords: University of Duhok, College of Veterinary Medicine, Graduation 2026, Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Education, Student Success, Alumni, Animal Health, Public Health