Diyarbakir, Turkey, May 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

In line with its strategic vision to advance international academic collaboration and cultural engagement, the University of Duhok (UOD) marked a distinguished presence at the 11th Amed International Theatre Festival hosted in Amed. The festival, organized by the Metropolitan Municipality of Amed in cooperation with the International Theatre Institute (ITI), brought together international leading scholars, practitioners, and artists from across the region and beyond.

Academic Representation and Knowledge Exchange

Representing UOD’s College of Fine Arts, Dr. Toghib Ahmad Qaro and Lecturer Fakhraldeen Taha Nabi from the Department of Drama actively participated as researchers and contributors. Their engagement included:

• Delivering academic seminars on contemporary theatre practices
• Facilitating joint workshops with international participants
• Contributing to cross-cultural dialogue in performing arts education

Their participation reflects UOD’s commitment to integrating creative disciplines within global academic networks, reinforcing the role of arts in fostering dialogue, identity, and innovation.

Many events were organized as part of the festival, which featured the participation of international universities from around the world, including the University of Duhok, the University of Baghdad, the University of Sulaهmani, as well as universities from Tunisia, Germany, and Ukraine. It is worth noting that Ms. Haibat Sidqi Haji—a theater researcher and a member of the Genocide Studies Center at the University of Duhok—played a pivotal role in organizing the discussion sessions during these events. Furthermore, Ihsan Othman Abdullah, a Kurdish figure from Duhok and a member of both the main International Theatre Institute (ITI) and the German ITI center, played a pivotal role in the overall organization and success of the festival.

Official Recognition and Future Cooperation

The delegation from the University of Duhok was officially welcomed by Mrs. Serra Bucak Küçük The Mayor of Amed, who commended the university’s active contribution.

Promoting Arts, Culture, and Global Engagement

The festival, held from April 22 to May 3, 2026, serves as a dynamic platform for advancing theatre arts, academic exchange, and intercultural understanding. UOD’s participation underscores its broader mission to:

• Enhance international visibility and academic reputation
• Support creative industries and cultural diplomacy
• Foster student and staff engagement in global artistic platforms

Through such initiatives, the University of Duhok continues to position itself as a leading institution committed to innovation, cultural exchange, and global academic integration.

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University Press Office, May 3, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali

Information will be updated..

The News Keywords:

• University of Duhok international participation
• Theatre festival Amed 2026
• UOD cultural exchange
• Academic collaboration performing arts
• University global partnerships