Amedi, July 11, 2025 | University Press Office (UNPO) — In a major step toward strengthening local agriculture, and on July 7, the University of Duhok (UOD) officially inaugurated its first Agricultural Extension Unit in Amedi District. The opening ceremony brought together key regional figures including UOD President Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, Bahram Arif Yasin (PDK Branch 18), Amedi Mayor Warshin Salman Mohammed Tahir, University council members, agricultural syndicates, and local farmers.

This pioneering unit marks the first academic-agricultural extension model in the Kurdistan Region, built to bridge scientific research with farmers’ real-world needs. The initiative aligns closely with UoD’s strategic plan for community service, innovation, and sustainable rural development.

Connecting Knowledge to Practice

Led by Dr. Asaad Ali, the Extension Unit includes eight academic specialists trained in the U.S. in modern extension methods. The unit will:

• Train and support local and young farmers
  
  
• Enhance agricultural productivity
  
  
• Strengthen local supply chains and product marketing
  
  
• Foster sustainable agricultural practices
  
  

Dr. Atrushi emphasized that the model is inspired by the American agricultural extension system, but tailored to the cultural and environmental context of Kurdistan. He announced plans to expand the model to other areas of Duhok Governorate.

Field Training & Local Engagement

The event included two workshops by extension experts:

• Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed on plant protection methods
  
  
• Dr. Dilshad Ahmed on beekeeping challenges and solutions
  
  

The Mayor of Amedi voiced full support, stressing the unit’s potential to empower farmers. Dr. Shukri Haji Salih, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, noted that improving market access for agricultural products is key to regional development.

Recognition and Infrastructure

During the event, 15 exemplary farmers from Amedi were honored for their innovation and contributions. The newly opened unit headquarters includes:

• Two training halls
  
  
• A dedicated consultation and coordination office
  It will serve as a hub for technical guidance and training.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

University Press Office, July 11, 2025

Reported by: Ismat Mahmood Mohammed
Photography by: Hussein Ismael Mohammed

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