In a significant step toward fostering academic and research collaboration, the University of Duhok (UoD) and the University of Nineveh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 17, 2024. This agreement, signed at the Convention Center (UNCC) of the University of Duhok, aims to enhance research cooperation, academic exchanges, and knowledge-sharing between the two prestigious institutions.

The signing of this strategic MoU is a testament to both universities’ commitment to innovation, excellence, and internationalization in higher education and research development.

Official Signing Ceremony

The MoU was officially signed by:

• Assistant Professor Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi – President of the University of Duhok

• Professor Dr. Osama Ismail Al-Mashhadani – President of the University of Nineveh

The University of Nineveh delegation included:

• Dr. Jaafar Ramadan Muhammad – Vice President for Scientific Affairs

• Dr. Khalil Sayed Marai – Member of the Central Promotions Committee

• Dr. Maysar Muhammad Al-Qoutji – Dean of the College of Pharmacy

• Dr. Khaled Khalil Muhammad – Dean of the College of Engineering

• Dr. Ahmed Muhammad Salama – Director of Scholarships and Cultural Relations

• Dr. Balaa Aladdin Jabr – Vice Dean for Scientific Affairs, College of Engineering

• Mr. Zakir Tahseen – Director of the Department of Construction and Projects

• Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Bashir – Director of the Office of the University President

• Mr. Tawfiq Al-Sabaawi – Director of the Media Department

The University of Duhok warmly received the delegation, with key attendees including:

• Dr. Dilshad AbdulJabbar Haleem – Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs (VPAF)

• Dr. Nabaz Ibraheem Mohammed – Vice President for Student Affairs (VPST)

• Dr. Dildar Haji Musa – Dean of the College of Medicine (CMED)

• Dr. Suzan Omer Rasool – Dean of the College of Pharmacy (CPHR)

• Dr. Hind Al-Mufti – Faculty Member, College of Pharmacy (CPHR)

• Dr. Nazar Ameen Mohammed – Director of International Relations (DOIR)

• Dr. Serwan Ali Mohammed – Head of Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Key Objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding

The University of Duhok and the University of Nineveh have committed to fostering collaboration in several areas, including:

• ✅ Advancing Joint Research – Developing interdisciplinary projects that address Iraq’s academic and societal challenges.

• ✅ Faculty and Student Exchange – Enabling students and faculty members to participate in exchange programs to share expertise and experiences.

• ✅ Collaborative Academic Programs – Establishing joint curricula and study programs in various disciplines.

• ✅ Knowledge and Resource Sharing – Enhancing collaboration on research publications, conferences, and workshops.

• ✅ Innovation and Development – Strengthening research-driven solutions aligned with international higher education standards.

Both universities will adhere to national and international academic regulations, ensuring quality education and accreditation compliance in all collaborative efforts.

Statements from University Leadership

University of Duhok President, Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi

“This memorandum represents a strategic step towards academic excellence and research collaboration. It will play a crucial role in raising the academic standards and developing curricula that align with global higher education frameworks.”

University of Nineveh President, Dr. Osama Ismail Al-Mashhadani

“This agreement is part of our broader vision to enhance higher education in Iraq and strengthen its position regionally and internationally. We look forward to fruitful collaboration with the University of Duhok.”

Impact of the Partnership

The MoU between UoD and the University of Nineveh is expected to:

✔ Enhance academic exchange and research productivity.
✔ Create new opportunities for faculty and student development.
✔ Increase joint funding opportunities for collaborative research.
✔ Develop a stronger academic network between Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
✔ Foster innovation in science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences.

Following the MoU signing, both universities exchanged commemorative gifts as a symbol of appreciation and long-term collaboration.

Strengthening Iraq’s Higher Education System

This MoU reflects the University of Duhok’s commitment to expanding academic partnerships across Iraq and internationally. By fostering collaborations with leading institutions, UoD continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of higher education.

For more details on this historic agreement and other international partnerships, visit the Directorate of International Relations (DOIR) at the University of Duhok:

🔗 DOIR Website