University of Duhok – July 20, 2026, University Press Office (UNPO) | In a strategic step toward cementing a culture of innovation and transforming knowledge into practical solutions, the Joint Innovation Center was officially opened today, July 20, 2026, at the College of Engineering. The center is a collaborative initiative between the University of Duhok (UOD) and the Kurdistan Innovation Institute (KII).

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Ali Tatar, Governor of Duhok; Dr. Nawzad Abdulla, Head of Branch One of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP); Dr. Azad Najar, CEO of the Kurdistan Innovation Institute (KII); Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok; Dr. Vian Sulaiman, Deputy Head of the KDP Duhok Office; Mr. Brindar Haidar, Mayor of Duhok District; Dr. Shireen Husni, Head of the Organization Department at the Duhok Organization Office at KDP; along with members of the University Council.

The event commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Governor of Duhok, the CEO of KII, and the President of the University of Duhok. Attendees then stood for a minute of silence to honor the martyrs, followed by the national anthem. A promotional video highlighting the activities and mission of KII was also screened.

UOD President’s Speech: Towards a Generation of "Solution Producers"

In a comprehensive speech, Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok, emphasized the historical shift in the role of universities: "Throughout history, universities were known for two main missions: educating students and conducting research. Today, however, our third and most pioneering mission is to transform knowledge into innovations that benefit society." Dr. Dawood clarified that the center is not limited to the College of Engineering; its doors are open to all university students, faculty, and researchers across all disciplines, from medicine and agriculture to the humanities. He concluded with a powerful statement: "A university must not merely graduate students; it must produce 'solutions.' Today, we are not just opening new centers; we are opening new opportunities!"

Dr. Nashwan Shawkat: Serving Young Innovators

Dr. Nashwan Shawkat Mahmood, Dean of the College of Engineering, welcomed the guests and expressed gratitude for their support. He highlighted the center's vital role in providing a conducive environment for youth to develop their talents and turn their ideas into tangible projects.

Dr. Azad Najar: Duhok is a Hub of Innovative Minds

Dr. Azad Najar, renowned scientist and CEO of KII, focused on the power of determination: "Our nation is innovative and capable; whatever we aspire to achieve, we can accomplish." He noted that this initiative was realized through the direct support of H.E. Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region. Dr. Azad also commended Dr. Dawood Atrushi for his strategic efforts in advancing the University of Duhok, stating that Duhok is full of highly innovative minds and that this center will serve as a factory for discovering them.

Governor of Duhok: Our Continuous Need for Development

Dr. Ali Tatar, Governor of Duhok, expressed his optimism regarding this collaboration, emphasizing the importance of creating proper grounds for innovation. He stated: "We believe in our abilities, and all aspects of life require innovation and development so that we can face future challenges."

Success Story: From Idea to Reality

Concluding the ceremony, Yaser Balo, an innovator and UOD graduate, shared his success story. With the support of KII and over five years of continuous work, Yaser successfully developed a prosthetic hand. He remarked: "The opening of this center will remove many obstacles for young innovators. My message to the youth is: never give up on your dreams."

The Joint Innovation Center at the University of Duhok is now considered a major hub for technological and industrial development in the province, aiming to bridge the gap between academia and industry for the public interest of the Kurdistan Region.

INFORMATION WILL BE UPDATED..

Click Here to View the Photo Gallery

University Press Office (UNPO), July 20, 2026

Reported by: Ismat M. Khabour

Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar