Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi

The Fourth President of the University of Duhok (Aug 2021 - )

Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi
4th President of UOD
Aug 2021 - Still in the Office

Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi has served as the fourth President of the University of Duhok (UOD) since August 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Under his stewardship, UOD—a public institution and the third-largest university in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, with a vibrant community of over 30,000 academic community—has embarked on a transformative journey to establish itself as a policy-driven, inclusive, and globally competitive institution (see Facts & Figures).

A Pioneer in Strategic Planning and Policy Development

As a reformist leader, Dr. Atrushi has pioneered several groundbreaking initiatives during his presidency:

Policy-Driven Institution: He has made UOD the first public university in Iraq to establish a University Policy Office to institutionalize governance and transparency.

Strategic Planning Excellence: He spearheaded the development of a 15-year Strategic Plan (2023–2038), providing a clear roadmap for UOD’s growth in education, research, and community engagement.

Steering Committee Leadership: Dr. Atrushi initiated the formation of a Steering Committee to ensure alignment between the university’s vision and its operational goals.

Vision for Quality Education and Inclusivity

Dr. Atrushi’s leadership is guided by a firm belief in providing quality education while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students and faculty. His visionary approach emphasizes:

Institutional Accreditation: Mobilizing resources to achieve accreditation and align academic programs with international standards such as the Bologna Process.

Sustainable Development: Championing the establishment of a green and walkable campus that embodies environmental stewardship and enhances the academic experience.

Community Engagement: Strengthening partnerships and outreach programs to deepen UOD’s impact on the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

Extensive Experience in Higher Education Leadership

Dr. Atrushi’s contributions to UOD are rooted in his rich professional background:

Vice President for International Relations (2006–2014): During his tenure, he forged global partnerships, secured over $6 million in scholarships and academic projects, and expanded UOD’s international footprint.

Director General for Engineering and Projects (2017–2021): At the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Affairs, he oversaw strategic planning for university infrastructure and academic modernization.

Academic and Professional Credentials

Dr. Atrushi holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering (2003) and a Master’s in Civil Engineering (1992) from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His academic endeavours also include a Master’s in Higher Education from Kingston University, UK, in 2017. His research in structural engineering and higher education reform reflects his dedication to innovation and institutional growth.

Leading UOD into the Future

Under Dr. Atrushi’s presidency, UOD is positioned as a beacon of learning and innovation in Iraq and the region. His leadership inspires students, faculty, and stakeholders to contribute to a university that prioritizes academic excellence, inclusivity, and global engagement.

Dr. Atrushi invites all stakeholders—students, faculty, partners, and alumni—to join in shaping UOD’s promising future