UOD | May 24, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) —
As part of his official visit to Duhok Governorate, Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, met with the University Council of the University of Duhok (UOD), alongside directors of university centers and administrative units, to discuss the future of higher education, institutional development, and academic cooperation in the Kurdistan Region.

The meeting was opened by Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok, who warmly welcomed the Minister and expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s continued support of UOD, particularly in advancing academic reforms, institutional modernization, and educational quality enhancement.

Emphasizing Academic Freedom and Institutional Development

During the meeting, the Minister praised the dedication and resilience of UOD’s academic and administrative staff, describing their efforts during the current academic year as “exceptional” despite ongoing political and economic challenges.

Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir emphasized the importance of:

• Academic freedom and university autonomy
• Strengthening institutional independence
• Building open and modern universities
• Enhancing the societal role of higher education

In his remarks, the Minister stated:

“If universities are not free, minds cannot be free; and without free minds, free societies cannot be built.”

He also highlighted that the characteristics of a modern and socially engaged university are clearly reflected in the University of Duhok through its academic progress, community engagement, and strategic vision.

Strengthening Academic Unity Across the Kurdistan Region

A major focus of the meeting was the national role of academia in strengthening unity and cooperation among universities in the Kurdistan Region. The Minister stressed the importance of:

• Expanding academic cooperation between universities
• Encouraging mobility and exchange among faculty and students
• Enhancing coordination between governorates
• Building a unified academic environment across the Region

He further emphasized that universities must continue protecting the educational achievements of the Kurdistan Region while adapting to global transformations and preparing students for emerging future challenges.

UOD’s Strategic Vision for the Future

For his part, Prof. Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi presented UOD’s strategic vision for the coming phase, emphasizing that the university’s impact extends beyond traditional teaching and research roles.

The President highlighted:

• The importance of preserving university independence
• The role of higher education in social cohesion and unity
• UOD’s commitment to innovation and internationalization
• The university’s contribution to sustainable community development

Discussions also addressed several key academic issues, including higher education policies and future student admission plans. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the University’s needs and maintaining the high academic standards achieved by UOD.

Supporting UOD’s Strategic Plan

The meeting reflects UOD’s Strategic Plan (2023–2038), particularly in:

• Academic excellence and institutional governance
• Internationalization and modernization
• Community engagement and social responsibility
• Research, innovation, and sustainability
• Protecting academic freedom and institutional autonomy

Through continued collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, UOD continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading higher education institutions in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

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University Press Office, May 24, 2026
Reported by: Isamt Mahmoud Mohammed

The Keywords

University of Duhok council meeting, Minister of Higher Education Kurdistan, academic freedom Iraq universities, higher education reform Kurdistan Region, UOD strategic development