UOD – January 17, 2025 | University Press Office (UNPO) —
The University of Duhok (UOD) marked Kurdistan Flag Day, on December 17, with a powerful and symbolic ceremony at the Student Center, celebrating national identity, unity, and youth engagement in an event that combined patriotic expression with cultural pride.

The ceremony began with a striking visual moment as students from the College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences carried a 120-meter Kurdistan Flag from the university campus entrance toward the Student Center, symbolizing unity, strength, and collective national belonging. As the procession reached the venue, a helicopter showered flowers from the sky, creating an unforgettable scene for students, academic staff, and guests in attendance.

Organization and Hosting

The ceremony was organized by the Directorate of Sports at the University of Duhok, while the event was hosted at the Student Center in cooperation with the Kurdistan Democratic Students and Youth Union-First Branch. The strong involvement of students and youth organizations highlighted UOD’s commitment to student leadership, active citizenship, and community participation.

Official Attendance and Speeches

The event was attended by senior university leadership, political and governmental representatives, academics, and a large number of students.

The program included:

• Welcoming remarks delivered by representatives of the Kurdistan Democratic Students and Youth Union
  
  
• Official speeches by:
  
  
  • The Head of the Duhok Organization Office of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), Mr. Sarbast Lazgeen.
    
    
  • The Vice President of the University of Duhok, Dr. Dilshad Abduljabbar Haleem,
    
    
  • The representative of the Students and Youth Union in Duhok, Mrs. Gulistan Wasfi
  • A brief on the history of the Kurdistan Flag by Mr. Kawar Hameed Bavi.
    
    

Cultural Expression and Student Participation

The ceremony also featured poetry recitations presented by students, followed by folkloric performances, patriotic songs, and Kurdish music. These activities reflected the role of universities in preserving cultural heritage while nurturing creative and civic expression among youth.

Aligning with UOD’s Strategic Vision

This national celebration aligns with the University of Duhok Strategic Plan (2023–2038), particularly its focus on:

• Enhancing student life and extracurricular engagement
  
  
• Supporting youth-led initiatives
  
  

Through such initiatives, UOD continues to position itself as a leading academic institution that integrates education, culture, and citizenship.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

Reported by: Ismat Mahmood Mohammed, Bareen Mohammed Ahmed
Photography by: Mohammed A. Tahar

The News Keywords

• Kurdistan Flag Day
• University of Duhok Student Center
• College of Sport Sciences – UOD
• Student and Youth Union
• Student Activities and Civic Engagement