Beyond the Classroom: My Commitment to Community Engagement

My dedication to civil engineering and education extends far beyond the walls of academia. I firmly believe that universities have a vital responsibility to serve and uplift their communities. Throughout my career, I've actively sought opportunities to connect with the public, collaborate with local organizations, and contribute to the betterment of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Alignment with University Values:

The University of Duhok strives to be a leading institution that fosters social responsibility and active citizenship. My extracurricular activities directly align with these values by promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community-driven solutions.

Serving Society through Strategic Planning:

As the former president of the University of Duhok, I played a key role in developing strategic plans that prioritize community engagement. These plans encourage collaboration with local municipalities, NGOs, and businesses to address critical regional challenges.

Collaboration & Partnerships:

Building strong partnerships is essential for effective community engagement. Here are some examples of my ongoing collaborative efforts:

• Board of Trustees Member, American University in Kurdistan, Duhok: I contribute to the development of this esteemed university, fostering international educational partnerships and bolstering the region's academic landscape.

• Advisory Board Member, Duhok Municipality: I provide expertise and insights on infrastructure development projects, contributing to the sustainable growth of Duhok city.

• TV Panel Participant on Local Issues: I engage in public discourse on critical issues facing our communities, advocating for knowledge-based solutions and fostering civic engagement.

• Advisory Board Member, Al Fanar Media: I advise this prominent media organization on educational content and contribute to promoting awareness on crucial social issues.

• Member of Council of the Ministry of Higher Education (MHE), Kurdistan Region of Iraq: I play a leading role in shaping higher education policies and contribute to initiatives that enhance educational quality and accessibility within the region.

• Member of Several Committees in the MHE: I actively participate in various committees, providing expertise and insights on curriculum development, faculty training, and quality assurance within higher education institutions.

• Coordinator of EU-Funded TRANSITION Project: I lead this project aimed at strengthening the capacity of universities in the Kurdistan Region to contribute to socio-economic development through research and innovation.

Personal Reflections & Impact:

Engaging with local communities has been a deeply rewarding experience. Witnessing the positive impact of our collaborative efforts, from improved infrastructure to enhanced public awareness, has fuelled my commitment to community service.

Reflection & Learning:

My community engagement experiences have provided invaluable lessons on leadership, effective communication, and the importance of collaborative problem-solving. These insights not only enrich my academic work but also inform my approach to teaching and mentoring students.

A Lifelong Commitment:

Community engagement is a lifelong commitment for me. I believe that universities, in collaboration with local stakeholders, can be powerful catalysts for positive change.

Contact or Further Engagement:

If you share my passion for community development and collaborative problem-solving, I encourage you to reach out. We can explore potential research partnerships, discuss ongoing community projects, or simply connect on ways to contribute to the betterment of our region.

Together, we can make a lasting impact.