A Landmark Opening at UOD

UOD, September 9, 2025, University Press Office (UNPO) — The University of Duhok (UOD) proudly inaugurated the American Corner's new headquarters in a ceremony attended by Ms. Wendy Green, U.S. Consul General in Erbil, and Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of UOD, alongside academic and administrative officials. The event underscored UOD’s commitment to internationalization, cultural diplomacy, and student empowerment.

Distinguished Guests and Warm Welcome

Prior to the ceremony, President Atrushi met with Consul General Green and her delegation to discuss strengthening collaboration. Dr. Atrushi praised the U.S. role in supporting UOD’s development, while Ms. Green, on her first visit to Duhok, commended the impactful work of American Corners. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Nazar Ameen Mohammed, Director of International Relations, and Dr. Zirak Yousif Hasan, Director of the American Corner.

Ribbon Cutting and Symbolic Beginning

The dignitaries proceeded to the American Corner entrance for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the start of a new chapter in UOD’s international engagement. A moving performance of the national anthem with sign language by special-needs students gave the event an inspiring and inclusive tone.

Inspiring Speeches and Achievements

Inside the new facility, Dr. Zirak Hasan presented an overview of the Corner, describing it as “a bridge between cultures” and noting that in the past year it organized over 40 activities reaching 2,850 participants.

Dr. Atrushi welcomed the Consul General, calling the new American Corner “the beginning of a new chapter in education, cultural exchange, and partnership.” He expressed gratitude to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, U.S. Consulate in Erbil, and partners including the Director of the American Corner-Sulaimani, Mr. Hawbeer Hama Ali for financial oversight, and the Education Advisor at the U. S. Consulate General, Mr. Reving Mizory for continuous support.

Consul General Green praised UOD’s leadership and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to expanding educational and cultural ties. She stressed that the Corner is “one of the most active in the region” and plays a vital role in empowering youth and fostering dialogue: “The youth are our leaders, and the future is in their hands.”

Group Photo and Strategic Alignment

The event concluded with a group photo in the lobby, capturing the spirit of collaboration. The Consul General then departed for the Governor’s Guest House.

The inauguration aligns with UOD’s strategic vision by:

• Expanding international partnerships in higher education.
  
  
• Empowering students through global knowledge and cultural experiences.
  
  
• Engaging multiple disciplines including International Relations, English, Cultural Studies, and Media.
  
  
• Strengthening UOD’s role as a regional leader in cultural diplomacy.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

University Press Office, September 9, 2025
Reported by: Ismat Mahmoud Mohammed, Fatima Mahmood Ali
Photography by: Mohammed A. Tahar, Harman Jangeer Ahmed

The News Keywords

• American Corner Headquarters
  
  
• University of Duhok Internationalization
  
  
• U.S. Consul General Visit to UOD
  
  
• Cultural Exchange Programs at UOD
  
  
• Inclusive Education – Special Needs Performance