UOD – February 18, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) —
The University of Duhok participated in the official kick-off meeting of the project titled:

“enhancing university graduates’ eMplOyability through skills deVElopment and industry collaboration in Kurdistan region of Iraq and Yemen”

The meeting was held in Sulaimani on February 14–15, 2026, bringing together partner universities and institutional representatives to launch the three-year initiative and coordinate implementation roles across participating institutions.

The partner universities from the Kurdistan Region include: UOD, University of Salahaddin-Erbil, University of Sulaimani, University of Garmian. Partner Yemeni Universities are; Hadhramout University and University of Aden.

Coordinating a Regional Initiative

The kick-off meeting focused on defining project responsibilities, governance structures, and cooperation mechanisms among partners. Officials from participating universities met to organize work packages, timelines, and collaborative research and training activities that will guide the project over its duration.

UOD was represented by Dr. Dilshad Abduljabbar Haleem, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs, who joined discussions on strengthening institutional cooperation, and modernizing academic programs.

Enhancing Graduate Employability

Participants examined structural challenges facing graduates in Iraq and Yemen, particularly the historic reliance on public-sector employment and the mismatch between university preparation and private-sector demands.

The project promotes equipping graduates with:

• Practical and technical competencies
  
  
• Entrepreneurial and innovation skills
  
  
• Communication and teamwork abilities
  
  
• Sustainability-oriented knowledge
  
  

Through stronger cooperation between universities, industry, and government, the initiative aims to support more responsive academic programs aligned with evolving labor markets.

Supporting Green Economy and Sustainable Skills

A central objective of the project is preparing graduates for emerging opportunities in the green economy, particularly in environmental and agricultural sectors. By encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied research, the initiative seeks to contribute to long-term economic resilience and sustainable development in both regions.

Strategic Relevance for UOD

UOD’s participation supports its Strategic Plan (2023–2038), especially priorities related to:

• Expanding international academic engagement
  
  
• Enhancing graduate employability and professional skills
  
  
• Strengthening research and innovation networks
  
  
• Supporting sustainable development initiatives
  
  

Through its involvement in this three-year regional project, the University of Duhok continues to reinforce its role as an active partner in improving higher education quality and preparing graduates for competitive regional and global job markets.

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University Press Office – February 17, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali

News Keywords:

• MOVE Project
• Graduate Employability
• University of Duhok International Projects
• Green Skills Education
• Higher Education Reform