May 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

As part of its strategic commitment to internationalization, student-centered learning, and global academic engagement, the University of Duhok (UOD) continues to strengthen its long-standing partnership with Pennsylvania State University through the internationally recognized World in Conversation (WinC) program. Now entering its fourth consecutive year at UOD, the initiative provides students with a dynamic platform for intercultural dialogue and critical global discussions.

Promoting Intercultural Understanding and Global Citizenship

The WinC program creates a structured academic environment where students from UOD and Penn State engage in facilitated online dialogues addressing contemporary social, cultural, and global issues.

Spring 2026 Dialogue Series

During the Spring 2026 semester, UOD students actively participated in five online dialogue sessions focusing on thought-provoking global themes:

• March 26, 2026
  Topic: “How did Covid really impact your generation?”
• April 2, 2026
  Topic: “What is the problem with having wealth?”
• April 9, 2026
  Topic: “What dehumanizes us?”
• April 16, 2026
  Topic: “Religion impacts all of us, regardless of faith.”
• April 23, 2026
  Topic: “Besides the individual, what enables addiction?”

A total of 28 UOD students participated in the Spring dialogue cycle, with four students contributing to each of the first four sessions and eight students participating in the final dialogue. Throughout the program, students exchanged perspectives with their international peers in respectful, evidence-based, and intellectually engaging conversations.

Academic Leadership and Program Coordination

At UOD, the World in Conversation program was founded and continues to be supervised by Dr. Saaed A. Saeed, former Head of the Department of English Language at the College of Basic Education. Dr. Saaed oversees the dialogue sessions, coordinates student participation, and manages the selection process to ensure high academic standards and meaningful representation from across the university.

For each cycle, participating students are selected based on academic merit, communication skills, and leadership potential, reflecting UOD’s dedication to nurturing globally competent graduates prepared for international academic and professional environments.

Advancing UOD’s Strategic Vision

The continued partnership between UOD and Penn State directly supports the university’s strategic priorities in:

• Strengthening global academic partnerships and educational diplomacy
• Expanding international learning experiences beyond traditional classrooms

At the conclusion of the program, participating students receive official certificates issued by Penn State University, further strengthening their academic portfolios and supporting future opportunities in scholarships, exchange programs, and international mobility.

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University Press Office, May 6, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali

The News Keywords:

• University of Duhok international programs
• Penn State World in Conversation
• UOD global student engagement
• Intercultural dialogue university students
• International academic collaboration Iraq