PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH (PAR)

ABOUT THE PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH (PAR)

Led by Dr. Mohammed Aziz Ibrahem, Dean of the College of Science, University of Duhok In partnership with UNICEF

In response to escalating environmental challenges in the Duhok Governorate, the University of Duhok, under the direct leadership of Dr. Mohammed Aziz Ibrahem, Dean of the College of Science, and in partnership with UNICEF, launched a pioneering research initiative titled Participatory Action Research (PAR). The project focuses on the critical issues of water scarcity and pollution, as well as their social, environmental, and health impacts on local communities.

This initiative positions youth as agents of change, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to engage in evidence-based research, lead field initiatives, and drive meaningful community outreach related to sustainable water resource management.

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Office Office

* Empower young people to identify, analyze, and address local environmental challenges related to water.

* Build youth capacity in scientific research, data collection, analysis, and participatory planning.

* Strengthen collaboration between universities, government institutions, and civil society organizations.

* Design and implement realistic, community-based solutions informed by field data and research.

Project Phases

Youth participants from the University of Duhok received intensive training in participatory research, community engagement, and water/environmental management.

Participants gathered and analyzed data on water usage, pollution, agricultural practices, public awareness, and flood risks using surveys, interviews, and focus groups.

Participants formed research groups and launched targeted initiatives, including:

* The Impact of Household Water Storage Tanks on Water Quality and Public Health in Duhok City

* Greywater Recycling for Sustainable Water Use – Duhok

* Multi-Sector Wastewater Recycling for a Water-Secure Duhok

* Tackling Flooding and Erosion in Duhok

* Treated Wastewater Awareness Project

* Empowering Farmers with Hydroponic Farming – Duhok Region

* Sustainable Car Wash Solutions – Duhok, Kurdistan

* Plastic Pollution in Duhok’s Water & Its Environmental Impact

A closing event was held to present the results of the youth-led initiatives, attended by academic leaders, government representatives, NGOs, and community members.

Dr. Mohammed Aziz Ibrahem led the project from conception through execution, providing strategic oversight and academic guidance. He ensured alignment with scientific standards, participatory methodologies, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His leadership played a crucial role in transforming the project into a national model for environmental participatory research.

"We believe that engaging youth in addressing environmental challenges is not just an educational duty, but a real investment in a sustainable future. This project has proven that solutions start from within through youth awareness and passion for change."- Dr. Mohammed Aziz Ibrahem

* Involvement of 29 youth participants from diverse academic disciplines.

* Development of 8 impactful field projects across multiple sectors.

* Increased public awareness around water reuse, pollution, and conservation.

* Delivery of policy recommendations to local authorities for improving water infrastructure and environmental management.

The University of Duhok invites local, national, and international institutions concerned with water, environment, and youth empowerment to build upon the outcomes of the PAR project. By expanding its reach, we can replicate this model in other regions of Iraq and continue to drive community-led sustainable development.