UoD, November 2, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) — In a distinguished ceremony marking the 34th anniversary of its establishment, the University of Duhok (UoD) officially named its Central Library after the University’s founder and first President, Dr. Asmat Mohammed Khalid, in recognition of his pioneering contribution to establishing the institution. The anniversary programme also featured a series of academic, cultural, and recognition activities, alongside the announcement of major institutional and strategic achievements.

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok; Dr. Asmat Mohammed Khalid, founder and first President of the University; Dr. Sabah Ways, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Mr. Bahram Arif Yasin, Head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s 18th Branch; Dr. Hunar Issa, Secretary-General of the Kurdistan Accreditation Association for Education; Dr. Diyar Abdulkareem Saeed, President of the University of Zakho; Dr. Mihvan Arif Abdulrahman, President of Nawroz University; and Dr. Luqman Mohammed Salih, former Vice President of the University of Duhok. Members of parliament, representatives of governmental and political institutions, university assistants, college deans, academic staff, employees, and students also attended.

Central Library Named in Honour of UoD’s Founder

The ceremony began at the entrance of the Central Library, where the statue of Dr. Asmat Mohammed Khalid, created by students from the College of Fine Arts, was unveiled. The library’s name was then formally revealed as the Asmat Mohammed Khalid Central Library, honouring the individual whose vision and leadership laid the foundations for the University.

During a press conference, UoD President Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi welcomed the guests and emphasised the significance of the occasion, stating: “Today, we name the Central Library after Dr. Asmat Mohammed Khalid as an expression of appreciation and loyalty to his vision, dedication, and fundamental role in laying the foundations of this University.”

In his remarks, Dr. Asmat Mohammed Khalid expressed his happiness and congratulated the University on its anniversary and achievements. He emphasised that the University's progress was the result of the collective efforts and dedication of its academic staff, employees, and all those who had contributed to its development over the years.

Student Creativity and Cultural Activities

Following the library ceremony, attendees proceeded on foot to the Student Center, where they were welcomed through a programme of artistic and cultural performances. Students from the Theatre Department at the College of Fine Arts presented a theatrical performance addressing selected challenges and needs faced by university students. The University’s music team also performed several musical pieces, while an exhibition featuring paintings and sculptures created by students of the College of Fine Arts showcased their artistic talents and creativity.

These activities highlighted the role of student engagement and artistic expression in enriching campus life and providing students with opportunities to communicate ideas, develop their talents, and contribute to the University's cultural environment.

UoD President Highlights Major Strategic Achievements

At the Student Centre, President Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi delivered a comprehensive speech reflecting on the University's history, institutional standing, and ambitious steps towards the future. He highlighted several major achievements and developments, including:

• The UoD Strategic Plan 2023–2038: The President highlighted the University's strategic planning framework, describing it as a pioneering and comprehensive plan within the Kurdistan Region and the wider region.
• Institutional Accreditation and International Evaluation: He referred to the University's historic progress in institutional quality assurance, marked by the first visit of an international peer evaluation team to assess UoD against the 21 Foundational Criteria for Eligibility. This process represents an important step towards meeting recognised international standards and strengthening the University's institutional quality.
• The Kurdish Language Standardisation Project: The President also highlighted the significance of the University's Kurdish language standardisation project, recognising its national and academic importance. At the conclusion of this part of his speech, he expressed appreciation to all individuals and institutions that had contributed to these achievements.

Recognising Academic Excellence and Institutional Contributions

As part of its annual tradition of recognising service and dedication, the University honoured academic staff, employees, and supporters whose contributions have strengthened its academic and institutional development.

The recognition programme included:

• 28 academic staff members who had attained the academic rank of Professor.
• 38 academic and administrative employees who retired this year after many years of dedicated service.
• Six individuals and supporting entities recognised for their financial contributions and support in implementing university projects.

The ceremony concluded with traditional songs and folkloric performances by the Zakho Artistic Team, followed by commemorative photographs with the University leadership and guests.

Advancing UoD’s Strategic Vision

The 34th anniversary celebrations reflected the University's commitment to its Strategic Plan 2023–2038, particularly its guiding pillars of pioneering higher education, empowering students, meaningful contributions to society, and institutional development.

The naming of the Central Library after the University's founder represents a recognition of institutional history, leadership, and the values upon which UoD was established. Meanwhile, the announcement of progress in institutional evaluation and quality assurance demonstrates the University's commitment to strengthening academic standards and pursuing recognised international benchmarks.

The anniversary programme also highlighted the importance of student empowerment through artistic and cultural participation, as well as the University's appreciation of academic excellence and the contributions of its employees and partners. Together, these initiatives reflect UoD's continuing efforts to build a forward-looking institution that combines academic development, cultural identity, institutional quality, and social responsibility.

University Press Office, November 2, 2026
Reported by: Rondik Fadhil Adil, Mahir Tahir Salih
Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar

News Keywords

• University of Duhok 34th Anniversary
• Asmat Mohammed Khalid Central Library
• UoD Strategic Plan 2023–2038
• Institutional Accreditation and Quality Assurance
• Kurdish Language Standardisation Project