UOD, July 17, 2025 | University Press Office (UNPO) — In a celebration of community engagement and skill-building, the American Corner at the University of Duhok (UOD) honored trainers of over 10 diverse courses with certificates of appreciation, recognizing their contribution to student and youth development across the region.

The ceremony was held at the newly relocated American Corner in the Student Center on the UOD campus, in the presence of:

• Dr. Nabaz Ibraheem Mohammed, Vice President for Student Affairs
• Mr. Reving Mizory, Representative of the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil
• Dr. Nazar Ameen Mohammed, Director of International Relations
• Dr. Zirak Yousif Hasan, Director of the American Corner at UOD
  
  

Over 848 participants—including UOD students, graduates, and youth from outside the university—benefited from these training programs, which began in March 2025. The courses covered a wide range of topics, such as:

• Yoga and mindfulness
• Art and graphic design
• Leadership and heroism
• Chess strategy and critical thinking
  
  

This initiative aligns with UOD’s Strategic Plan for student empowerment, community outreach, and enhancing non-formal education.

Expanding Access and Social Impact

Dr. Zirak Yousif Hasan commended the trainers and urged them to continue their outreach by offering similar programs to youth and beneficiaries. He emphasized that the American Corner’s recent relocation to the heart of the Student Center reflects a strategic step toward closer student engagement and responsive programming.

Supporting Lifelong Learning Beyond the Classroom

In his address, Dr. Nabaz Ibraheem Mohammed congratulated the trainers and emphasized the importance of such programs in preparing youth for life after graduation.

“These courses equip young people with the skills, confidence, and creativity required by today’s dynamic labor market. The University of Duhok is not just a place for formal education—it’s a hub for growth, innovation, and opportunity for all youth in the region.”

He also pointed out that UOD operates several support centers and development units, which have served hundreds of students and youth through training, mentoring, and international collaboration.

Attendees of the ceremony also included past course participants. The ceremony concluded with a group photo of the UOD and U.S. Consulate leaders with the esteemed trainers.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

University Press Office, July 17, 2025
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali
Photography by: Ali Habib Habib

The News Keywords:

• American Corner Duhok
• Youth Empowerment Iraq
• Non-formal Education Kurdistan
• U.S. Consulate Erbil Programs
• Skill Training University of Duhok