UOD, October 19, 2025 | University Press Office (UNPO) —
Under the patronage of Dr. Saman Hussein Muhammad, Minister of Health, and Dr. Ali Tatar, Governor of Duhok, and in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health in Duhok, the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP) at the University of Duhok (UOD) organized an awareness event marking World Mental Health Day 2025, under the theme:
“Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

The event, held on October 16, at the University Convention Center, brought together representatives from the Governorate of Duhok, the health sector, partner organizations including Medica Mondiale, and a large audience of UOD faculty, students, and guests.

UOD’s Commitment to Mental Health and Community Well-being

In his address, Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of UOD, highlighted the University’s social responsibility in promoting mental health awareness and supporting affected communities.
He reaffirmed that UOD, through the IPP, plays a central role in connecting academia with public health efforts and in building psychosocial resilience in the Kurdistan Region.
Dr. Atrushi also emphasized UOD’s contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), linking education and health as foundations for sustainable recovery.

Health Collaboration and Institutional Support

The Director General of Health, Dr. Avrazsiyab Musa Younis, expressed appreciation for UOD’s partnership in advancing mental health services and awareness. He noted that mental well-being has become a national priority, particularly in regions affected by conflict and displacement.
Representing the Governor of Duhok, Deputy Governor Mr. Majid Said Salih commended the University for hosting this event and praised its ongoing collaboration with local and international health institutions.

Panel Discussions and Cultural Presentations

A specialized panel moderated by Mr. Sabri Mohammed Haji included experts Dr. Parjan Hashim Taha, Dr. Nawzad Sami Ahmed, Dr. Warzhin Yaseen Sulaiman, and Mr. Karzan Abdulatif Abdulrahman.
Discussions focused on post-crisis trauma, workplace stress, and practical strategies to improve psychological well-being.
The event also featured music and short drama performances that reflected the emotional and social dimensions of mental health, emphasizing the value of empathy and awareness.

Humanitarian Action and Community Engagement

In parallel with the event, a donation campaign for Thalassemia patients was organized by Mr. Ranj Omar Salam, symbolizing the humanitarian spirit that UOD promotes through its students and staff.

Global Awareness from Duhok

Observed globally on October 10, World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness and promote mental health care worldwide.
By leading this initiative, the University of Duhok reaffirmed its commitment to advancing community well-being through education, research, and health partnerships across the Kurdistan Region.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

University Press Office, October 19, 2025
Reported by: Rondik Fadhil Adil, Fatima Mahood Ali
Photography by: Mohammed A. Tahar

The News Keywords

• Mental Health Awareness
• University of Duhok Events
• Psychosocial Support
• Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology
• World Mental Health Day 2025