Rome, February 27, 2025 – In alignment with its strategic vision for internationalization, the University of Duhok (UOD) continues to expand its global academic partnerships. A key milestone in this endeavor was the high-level meeting between Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of UOD, and Dr. Mariagrazia Russo, President of the University of International Studies of Rome (UNINT). The discussion centered on strengthening academic cooperation, facilitating faculty and student exchanges, and fostering joint research initiatives.

Advancing UOD’s International Strategy

UOD is actively positioning itself as a hub for global academic collaboration, aligning with its Strategic Plan 2023–2038, which prioritizes:

• International Partnerships – Establishing academic ties with leading global institutions.
• Research Excellence – Expanding interdisciplinary collaborations in cutting-edge fields.
• Student and Faculty Mobility – Enhancing educational experiences through exchange programs.
• Digital and Sustainable Education – Integrating technology and innovative teaching methods in higher education.

At the meeting, Dr. Dawood S. Atrushi provided an overview of UOD’s strategic academic and research initiatives, emphasizing the university’s dedication to fostering international research networks and exchange programs. He reiterated UOD’s commitment to developing joint academic programs that will enhance student learning and faculty development.

Key Areas of Collaboration with UNINT

During the discussions, both university presidents outlined key focus areas for collaboration, including:

• Joint Degree Programs – Establishing interdisciplinary academic pathways between UOD and UNINT.
• Faculty and Student Exchange – Creating structured mobility programs to promote international learning.
• Research Collaboration – Engaging in global research partnerships that align with both institutions’ academic strengths.
• Cultural and Linguistic Exchange – Strengthening language and cultural programs between Kurdistan and Italy.

Dr. Mariagrazia Russo expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with UOD, highlighting UNINT’s dedication to fostering international academic relationships. She emphasized that such partnerships play a vital role in preparing students for global career opportunities and academic excellence.

Building Bridges for Global Education

The meeting concluded with a formal exchange of gifts, symbolizing a shared commitment to advancing higher education through international cooperation. As part of its internationalization strategy, UOD is set to expand its network of academic partnerships across Europe, Asia, and North America, reinforcing its role as a leading institution in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

This partnership with UNINT marks a significant step toward achieving UOD’s long-term vision for a globally connected, research-driven university, contributing to knowledge exchange, cultural diplomacy, and the advancement of higher education standards.

📢 For more information on UOD’s international collaborations, visit our International Relations page.

Please brows the Photos for this Event > Photos here

📍 UOD Media | February 27, 2025
📝 Reported by: UOD Media Office
📸 Photography by: Hussein Ismael Mohammed, Mohammed Abdulkareem Tahir

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🔹 University of Duhok International Partnerships
🔹 Global Higher Education Collaboration
🔹 Student and Faculty Exchange Programs
🔹 Research and Innovation in Kurdistan
🔹 UOD Strategic Plan 2023–2038