University of Duhok – September 9, 2026, University Press Office (UNPO) | As part of his official visit to Duhok Governorate, His Eminence Sayyid Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the National Wisdom Movement and Head of the National State Forces Alliance, visited the University of Duhok (UOD) on September 8, 2026. He was received by Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok, members of the University Council, directors of its research centers, and the accompanying delegation.

In his welcoming remarks, the UOD President emphasized that the visit represents the first visit by a prominent Iraqi political figure to the University, expressing hope that it would open new avenues for communication between national leaders and universities and for engaging academics, researchers, and young people in discussing major issues shaping Iraq’s future. He stressed that Iraq’s future is built not only in political institutions, but also in universities, research centers, and through the ideas and aspirations of its youth, emphasizing the importance of grounding public policymaking in knowledge and scientific research.

Dr. Atrushi also raised the issue of the appointment of the top three graduates from scientific and humanities departments at universities in the Kurdistan Region, noting that since 2017, they have not received their entitlement to appointment on an equal basis with graduates of other Iraqi universities. He called for a fair solution to the issue through coordination between the Federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government, in a manner that safeguards the graduates’ rights and strengthens their confidence in justice and state institutions.

Addressing another aspect of his remarks, the University President referred to the historic relationship between the Al-Hakim and Barzani families, which was established during difficult stages of Iraq’s history on the basis of confronting repression and authoritarianism and believing in democracy and the rights of the components of the Iraqi people. He expressed hope that this relationship would continue to serve as a foundation for building new bridges, strengthening trust between Baghdad and Erbil, and supporting constitutional partnership and Iraq’s democratic future.

Following the President’s remarks, several deans and directors of research centers participated in discussions addressing a number of national issues, including constitutional provisions, Kurdish rights, and balance and partnership in Iraq, emphasizing the importance of academic and national dialogue in addressing issues of common concern.

His Eminence Sayyid Ammar Al-Hakim then delivered his remarks, stressing the importance of unifying visions and approaches and listening to academics and national intellectuals. He noted that his visit to the University was motivated by his interest in understanding the pulse of Kurdish society and listening to academic leaders. He also affirmed his support for the concept of regions, emphasizing their continued support for this principle within Iraq’s constitutional framework.

The accompanying delegation included Haji Redha Jawad Taqi, Member of the Political Bureau; Mr. Abdullah Al-Zaidi, Adviser to the President of the Republic; Sabah Al-Salihi, Representative of the National Wisdom Movement Office in the Kurdistan Region; and Fadhil Al-Haidari, Representative of the National Wisdom Movement in Erbil and Duhok.

At the conclusion of the visit, commemorative gifts were exchanged between the University of Duhok and the visiting delegation, reflecting the importance of communication and dialogue between academic institutions and national leaders.

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University Press Office, September 9, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali
Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar, Ali Habib Habib