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University of Duhok Hosts Historic First International Conference of Iraqi Veterinary Medicine Colleges (IICIVMC2025)

April 18, 2025, 10:50 a.m.

70 Research Presentations, 14 Participating Universities, and a Vision for Scientific Collaboration Across Iraq

📍 University of Duhok Media | April 10, 2025
📝 Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali
📸 Photography by: Mohammed Abdulkareem Tahir,

UOD - University Press Office UNPO | The University of Duhok (UOD) proudly hosted the First International Conference of Iraqi Veterinary Medicine Colleges (IICIVMC2025) on April 9–10, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of veterinary medicine education and research across Iraq. Held at the UOD Convention Center, the event was organized by UOD’s College of Veterinary Medicine, in close partnership with the veterinary colleges of Salahaddin University-Erbil, University of Sulaimani, University of Mosul, and University of Al-Qadisiyah.

 

A Milestone in Veterinary Education

The opening ceremony, held on April 9, 2025, brought together more than 150 participants including deans, researchers, professors, postgraduate students, and guests from across the country. The event began with the national anthem, and a folklore show, followed by opening speeches from:

  • Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok: He welcomed the visiting delegations from across Iraq, and highlighted the significance of such conferences in deepening the academic ties between the peers among specific fields. He also urged the veterinary experts to unite to address the challenges in this sensitive field.
     
  • Dr. Mohammed Shukri Shukur, Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Chair of the Conference: Stated that the aim of this event is to facilitate knowledge between scientists, students and researchers. He stressed that the coming versions will include more colleges from the country.
     
  • Mrs. Zozan Ali Salih, Member of the Iraqi Parliament: She welcomed this initiative on behalf of the Iraqi Committee of Agriculture, Water and Marshes and highlighted the role veterinary medicine palys in advancing public health and wellbeing.

 

  •  Dr. Omer Kutubi,  CEO, VILLAGE VET LLC, UAE: Presented a comprehensive overview of thyroid gland disorders in companion animals, with a focus on feline hyperthyroidism and canine hypothyroidism—two of the most prevalent endocrine conditions affecting older cats and middle-aged dogs, respectively.

A cultural performance followed, celebrating the rich heritage of the Kurdistan Region, and setting a tone of unity and pride in academic advancement.

 

Diverse Participation and Rich Scientific Content

The conference welcomed representatives from 14 veterinary colleges across Iraq, including:

  • University of Baghdad
     
  • University of Basrah
     
  • University of Fallujah
     
  • University of Diyala
     
  • University of Tikrit
     
  • University of Karbala
     
  • University of Kufa
     
  • University of Wasit
     
  • University of Misan
     
  • University of Samarra
     
  • University of Anbar
     
  • Alongside the 5 organizing universities
     

More than 100 scientific papers were submitted, with 70 peer-reviewed and accepted for presentation. Sessions were distributed across three parallel halls, covering a wide range of disciplines:

🔹 Session Themes Included:

  • Veterinary Medicine
     
  • Surgery
     
  • Pathology
     
  • Parasitology
     
  • Microbiology
     
  • Pharmacology & Toxicology
     
  • Public Health (Basic Sciences)
     

Each session featured overviews on 5-6 research pieces from participating universities, in-depth discussions led by moderators from various universities, and Q&A segments that encouraged inter-institutional academic dialogue.

 

Scientific Collaboration and Strategic Alignment

Throughout the conference, researchers showcased studies related to zoonotic diseases, emerging veterinary diagnostics, One Health approaches, and animal welfare—themes critical to Iraq’s public health infrastructure and food security.

This initiative directly aligns with UOD’s Strategic Vision 2023–2038, emphasizing:

  • Promotion of research and innovation in health and veterinary sciences
     
  • Building national academic networks and institutional collaboration
     
  • Hosting international-standard scientific events in Duhok
     
  • Encouraging student participation and graduate research engagement
     

 

Closing Ceremony and Future Vision

The closing ceremony honored the contributions of the participating deans, committee members, sponsors, and academic supporters by presenting commemorative shields. A final group photograph captured the spirit of collaboration and achievement.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Mohammed Shukri Shukur officially announced that the second edition of the conference will be hosted by the University of Sulaimani in 2026, reaffirming the rotational nature of this national academic platform and the commitment to continued partnership among Iraq’s veterinary colleges.

Highlights available via UOD Media Gallery

 

 

Meta Keywords for SEO Optimization:

  • University of Duhok Veterinary Conference
     
  • IICIVMC2025 Scientific Research Iraq
     
  • Academic Collaboration in Veterinary Medicine
     
  • Veterinary Higher Education in Iraq
     
  • UOD Strategic Plan and Scientific Events
     

 

📌 University of Duhok Media | April 10, 2025