UoD, October 20, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) — The University of Duhok (UoD), with Duhok Governorate, held a memorial ceremony marking the 40th day memorial the passing of the renowned Kurdish historian, intellectual, and scholar Professor Dr. Abdul-Fattah Ali Botani. The ceremony took place at the University’s Convention Center, bringing together academic, government, political, and cultural figures, alongside his family, colleagues, students, and admirers, to honour his life, scholarship, and lasting contributions to Kurdish history and higher education.

Born on July 1, 1950, Professor Botani passed away on September 1, 2026, leaving behind a significant scholarly legacy and a lasting impact on the academic and cultural life of Kurdistan.

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Ali Tatar, Governor of Duhok; Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok; Mr. Sarbast Lazgin, Head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s Organisational Office in Duhok Governorate; Dr. Vian Sabri, Deputy Head of the Organisational Office; members of the University Council; and members of Professor Botani’s family, alongside academics, students, writers, and cultural figures.

In his address, Governor Dr. Ali Tatar reflected on Professor Botani’s intellectual influence, historical scholarship, and national contributions. Recalling his experience as Botani’s student, he highlighted the professor’s encouragement of reading and writing, as well as his commitment to documenting historical truths, particularly those relating to Kurdish identity and the Kurdish national liberation movement.

Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok, highlighted Professor Botani’s pioneering role during the University’s establishment and early development. He also recognised his service as Dean of the College of Arts and his contribution to building its academic foundations, including establishing the College of Arts Library, which supported teaching, learning, and scholarly research.

Describing Professor Botani’s books and writings as a valuable national and academic treasure, the University President emphasised the enduring importance of his work as a source for future generations of researchers and readers. On behalf of the University Council, he expressed appreciation for Professor Botani’s years of service to the University and his contribution to Kurdish scholarship and historical knowledge.

The programme also featured a documentary film highlighting key stages of Professor Botani’s life, intellectual journey, convictions, and scholarly achievements. Kurdish poet Amin Botani recited a poem in his memory, while Mr. Bardil Abdul-Fattah Ali Botani, staff member at the UoD’s Beşikçi Center his son, delivered a message on behalf of the family, expressing gratitude to the University and all those who attended to honour his father.

As part of the commemoration, attendees paid tribute to Professor Botani through floral tributes at a stage displaying his portrait. The ceremony concluded with a visit to an exhibition in the Conference Centre lobby, featuring posters and quotations reflecting his ideas, historical perspectives, and scholarly contributions.

Through this commemoration, the University of Duhok honoured not only the memory of a distinguished historian but also the legacy of a scholar who helped shape the University during its formative years. His contributions to higher education, the College of Arts, and the documentation of Kurdish history remain an important part of the University’s academic heritage and its commitment to preserving knowledge and cultural identity for future generations.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Mehvan M. Salih
Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar

News Keywords

• University of Duhok
• Professor Abdul-Fattah Botani
• Kurdish History and Heritage
• College of Arts Library
• Kurdish Historians and Academic Legacy