UoD, September 15, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) — The UoD’s American Corner, in cooperation with the Duhok Governorate, organized a three-day Youth Community Forum under the theme “Youth Voices for Better Public Services in Duhok,” bringing together university students, young academics, and civil society activists to discuss community needs and present practical recommendations for improving public services.

The forum, supported through the DYF Project in cooperation with Kurdistan Save the Children (KSC), began with youth activities and a series of project discussions on August 26 and 27 and concluded on September 14 with a seminar and certificate distribution.

The initiative provided young participants with a structured platform to exchange ideas with trainers and representatives from the Governorate’s planning and economic department, with a particular focus on how public resources and financial support can better respond to community needs.

Youth Voices for Better Public Services

During the forum, participants presented recommendations aimed at strengthening financial support for low-income families, people with special needs, and small-scale community projects. The discussions encouraged young people to move beyond identifying challenges and develop practical, evidence-based proposals that could contribute to improving local public services.

The forum also provided an opportunity for participants to share their experiences, discuss successful initiatives, and identify challenges they face in developing and implementing community projects. Discussions emphasized the importance of innovation, civic participation, and cooperation between young people and public institutions.

Building Youth Capacity Through Technology

The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies was also highlighted as a tool that can help young people develop ideas, improve productivity, access information, and work more effectively toward their community and professional goals.

The main forum brought together youth participants, university academics, civil society representatives, public officials, and other stakeholders, creating a space for direct dialogue between young people and decision-makers.

The initiative reflects UOD’s commitment to youth empowerment, community engagement, civic participation, innovation, and collaboration with public and civil society institutions. By supporting platforms where young people can present ideas and engage directly with stakeholders, the university contributes to developing a more active and informed generation capable of participating in community development and improving public services.

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University Press Office, September 15, 2026
Reported by: Sabah Abdulaziz Mohammed Saleh, Fatima Mahmood Ali
Photography: Ali Habib Habib

The Keywords:

Youth Community Forum Duhok, American Corner-Duhok, youth empowerment, public services Duhok, DYF Project