UOD-University Press office UNPO | On April 7, 2025, the University of Duhok (UOD) hosted a distinguished delegation from the German-Kurdish Friendship Association and German governmental institutions, headed by Mrs. Ziyan Ahmad. The visit aimed to strengthen academic cooperation, launch joint research initiatives, and explore sustainable collaboration focused on post-conflict recovery.

🔹 Advancing UOD's Strategic Vision

• International Academic Engagement:
  The visit underscores UOD's internationalization strategy, expanding its global partnerships, particularly with German universities and research institutions.
   
• Leadership Reception:
  UOD President Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, alongside a team of senior academics, welcomed the delegation and presented the university’s strategic objectives, cutting-edge programs, and growing regional and international influence.
   
• Research Excellence in Post-Conflict Studies:
  The delegation was introduced to UOD’s specialized centers including:
   
  • Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies
  • Department of Peace and Human Rights
  • Gender Equality Studies Center
  • Center for Genocide Studies
  • Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP)
     
• Knowledge for Social Impact:
  UOD experts shared impactful research in areas such as genocide documentation, trauma recovery, migration dynamics, and community reconciliation, highlighting UOD's academic contributions to social healing and justice.
   
• Dialogue on Shared Priorities:
  Discussions addressed crucial themes:
   
  • The societal aftermath of genocide
     
  • Root causes of conflict and mechanisms for peacebuilding
     
  • Forced displacement, youth migration, and social fragmentation
     
  • Education and cultural heritage as tools for sustainable recovery
     
• Empowering Minorities through Research and Action:
  Centers presented their community outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of inclusive education, trauma-informed research, and policy-oriented recommendations to protect vulnerable communities.
   
• Call for Global Solidarity:
  Dr. Atrushi emphasized the continued threat of genocide and urged for sustained international support and cooperation. He reaffirmed UOD’s commitment to fostering peace through education, research, and strategic partnerships.
   
• Outcomes and Future Collaboration:
  Both sides agreed to explore joint reintegration programs and deepen research on migration, trauma, and minority rights, paving the way for long-term collaboration.
   
• Gratitude and Future Engagement:
  The visiting delegation praised the University of Duhok for its visionary leadership, academic depth, and dedication to real-world impact, committing to ongoing coordination and knowledge exchange.

View highlights from the event: HERE

UOD Media, April 7, 2025

Reported by: Ismat Mahmood Mohammed 

Photography by: Ali Habib Habib

Meta Keywords:

•  Internationalization
•  Post-Conflict Research
•  Peacebuilding
•  Strategic Partnerships
•  Academic Diplomacy