May 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

As part of its strategic commitment to cultural heritage preservation, experiential learning, and international academic cooperation, the Department of Archaeology, College of Humanities, University of Duhok continues to implement a series of specialized academic and field activities under the TRANSITION Project, funded in collaboration with the European Union. The initiative aims to strengthen students’ knowledge and practical skills in preserving the tangible and intangible heritage of minority communities in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

The activities were organized within the subject of “cultural heritage” and included field visits, academic seminars, and specialized lectures addressing the cultural heritage of Chaldean, Yazidi, Baha’i, and other minority communities.

Field Visit to Alqosh to Explore Chaldean Heritage

Students from the Department of Archaeology conducted a field visit to Alqosh, one of the most prominent historical centers of the Chaldean community in northern Iraq.

The educational tour included visits to:

• The historic Alqosh Church
• Mar Mikha School and Church
• The Tomb of the Prophet Nahum
• The Heritage Museum
• The traditional Alqosh market

The visit provided students with direct exposure to local cultural traditions, religious heritage, and historical architecture, while enhancing their understanding of the importance of preserving minority identity and cultural memory.

Archaeology Students Visit Lalish Temple to Study Yazidi Intangible Heritage

As part of the ongoing TRANSITION activities, archaeology students also conducted a field trip to Lalish Temple, the spiritual center of the Yazidi community.

The field study focused on the site’s intangible cultural heritage, including:

• Religious rituals and ceremonies
• Customs and traditions
• Festivals and social practices
• Traditional clothing and foods
• Oral and symbolic heritage associated with the temple

The visit featured scientific discussions on the importance of safeguarding intangible heritage as a core component of cultural identity and social diversity.

Specialized Lecture on the Preservation of Baha’i Heritage

Within the framework of practical heritage training, the Department of Archaeology hosted a specialized lecture on the preservation of Baha’i heritage, delivered by Ms. Carmen and Dr. Zhiyar Sadeeq Ramadan, the Head of the Archeology Department.

The lecture explored:

• The historical and cultural significance of Baha’i heritage
• Methods of heritage preservation and documentation
• The role of archaeologists and heritage specialists in protecting minority heritage sites and traditions

The session concluded with interactive scientific discussions and a question-and-answer segment that encouraged students to critically engage with contemporary challenges in heritage preservation.

Seminar on Religious Heritage and Peaceful Coexistence in Sheikhan

On May 10, 2026, researcher and archaeologist Mr. Mohammed Arif Tatar, Director of Cultural Activities in Sheikhan District, delivered a seminar titled:

“The Heritage and Religious Sites of Religions and Minorities in Sheikhan District and Their Importance in Peaceful Coexistence”

The seminar emphasized the role of religious and historical sites in:

• Promoting peaceful coexistence
• Strengthening intercultural understanding
• Preserving collective historical memory

Seminars on Chaldean Culture and Cultural Sociology

Further academic activities under the TRANSITION Project included two seminars presented on May 12, 2026, by Father Andrew Gima Alqosh and Dr. Samya Saeed Khalid.

The seminars, titled:

• “Chaldean Culture”
• “Cultural Sociology”

focused on strengthening students’ awareness of cultural identity, diversity, and heritage studies. The sessions encouraged students to pursue future MA and PhD research related to:

• Minority cultures and identities
• Cultural sociology
• Heritage studies and preservation
• Social and religious diversity

Supporting UOD’s Strategic Vision

These activities reflect the University of Duhok’s broader strategic priorities in:

• Preserving cultural and minority heritage
• Advancing community-oriented and field-based learning
• Strengthening international cooperation through EU-supported projects
• Promoting intercultural dialogue and peaceful coexistence
• Developing a new generation of heritage specialists and researchers

Through the TRANSITION Project, the University of Duhok continues to position itself as a leading regional institution in the fields of cultural heritage education, international collaboration, and sustainable preservation of minority identities.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE

University Press Office, May 14, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali

The News Keywords:

University of Duhok TRANSITION project, minority heritage preservation Iraq, archaeology students heritage field trips, Yazidi and Chaldean heritage UOD, cultural heritage education Kurdistan