Duhok, February 12, 2025 – The University of Duhok (UOD) proudly hosted Fut-Talks, a dynamic and forward-thinking event designed to equip young professionals with essential leadership skills for the evolving job market. As part of the Future Makers Initiative, the event brought together students, graduates, and industry experts for a day of knowledge exchange, career insights, and networking opportunities.

This initiative, supported by the Iraqi Prime Minister’s strategic youth development plan, is a landmark effort in bridging education and professional careers. With backing from major organizations—including the Iraqi Higher Youth Council, the Kurdistan Regional Government, UOD, the University of Kurdistan Hewlêr, Toyota, and Rudaw—Fut-Talks is set to play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of leaders in Iraq.

Key Highlights of the Event

The event began with an opening address by Miss Dalia Fathi, Public Relations Officer of the Future Makers Foundation, who introduced the initiative’s objectives.

Insights from UOD’s Leadership

The President of the University of Duhok, Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of strategic career planning and leadership development. He noted:

• "The future is not what we are born with—it is what we create."
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) must be incorporated into education and career programs to ensure lasting progress.
• Youth initiatives like Fut-Talks, are essential for bridging academia and industry, fostering innovation and economic growth.

Inspiring Talks from Industry Experts and Academics

The event featured six insightful talks, each addressing critical topics at the intersection of technology, governance, and career development:

✅ AI in Medicine – The Future of Healthcare
Speaker: Batool Qasim (College of Medicine, UOD)

• How AI enhances medical diagnostics and healthcare solutions.
• The evolving role of technology in modern medicine.

✅ Kaizen & Continuous Improvement – The Toyota Philosophy
Speaker: Mr. Taha Shekhani (Toyota Agency, Erbil)

• Lessons from Toyota’s Kaizen philosophy on efficiency and innovation.
• The power of human-centered development in career success.

✅ AI for Governance – Building Stronger Institutions
Speaker: Walaa Mushir Ahmed (UOD Alumna)

• How AI-driven governance enhances justice and digitized state systems.
• Examples from Singapore and Norway showcasing AI-driven governance models.

✅ The Digital Workforce – Opportunities for Future Generations
Speaker: Dr. Ranjhad Kamaran (Vice President, UKH)

• How young professionals can leverage digital opportunities and remote careers in the global market.

✅ AI & Misinformation – Combating Digital Falsehoods
Speaker: Shahad Badel Salahadeen (MA Student, UOD)

• Tools such as Google Fact Checker, GPS, and AI-driven analysis in combating digital misinformation.
• The role of government policies in regulating social media credibility.

✅ FutPro – The Next Phase of the Future Makers Program
Speaker: Dalia Fathi (Future Makers Foundation)

• How to apply for Phase 2: FutPro, a platform where young professionals submit projects for evaluation.
• The top 100 project ideas will proceed to FutCamp, where Toyota experts will provide hands-on mentorship.
• The finalists will be selected to travel to Japan for an exclusive development program.

Aligning with UOD’s Strategic Vision

The University of Duhok remains committed to empowering youth and aligning with global standards in education and professional development. By hosting Fut-Talks, UOD bridges the gap between academia and real-world industry experiences, reinforcing its mission to:

✔ Develop leadership and innovation as core skills for students.
✔ Strengthen academic-industry partnerships.
✔ Prepare graduates for global workforce demands.
✔ Foster economic growth by equipping youth with cutting-edge knowledge.

A Year-Long Journey of Growth and Opportunities

Fut-Talks is just the beginning. The broader Future Makers Initiative runs from January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026, offering students and young professionals mentorship, career development workshops, and global networking opportunities.

A Call to Action for Future Leaders

UOD invites all aspiring young professionals to apply for the next phases of Fut-Talks and seize once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in career growth, leadership training, and international exposure.

📌 Register for FutPro: [Insert Application Link]
📌 Stay updated on upcoming events: [University of Duhok Official Website]

With strong institutional backing and a clear vision for youth empowerment, Fut-Talks is shaping the next generation of leaders in Iraq and beyond.

📍 UOD Media, February 13, 2025
📝 Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali
📸 Photography by: Hussein Ismael Mohammed, Harman Jangeer Ahmed

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✔ Leadership Development at UOD
✔ Career Growth and Innovation
✔ AI in Governance and Medicine
✔ Youth Empowerment in Iraq
✔ University of Duhok Initiatives