Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Cihan University–Erbil, Erbil Provincial Council, and SENED Organization Discuss Joint Roadmap
As part of its ongoing commitment to community service and the implementation of international agendas, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University–Erbil, received a joint delegation on Monday, January 26, 2026. The delegation included Dr. Ali Rashid, Chairman of the Erbil Provincial Council, and Mr. Sameh Al-Muqdadi, Head of the SENED Organization for Economic Development and Director General of Relief International in Iraq.
The meeting, attended by the University’s Vice Presidents and several Heads of Scientific Departments, featured in-depth discussions on the implementation of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their alignment with the local context of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi welcomed the guests and outlined the university’s strategic roadmap:
“Cihan University–Erbil is a pioneer in integrating SDGs into its strategic plan. These goals are currently taught as part of the curriculum
for first-year students across all departments. Furthermore, senior students’ graduation projects and faculty research are heavily focused on finding practical solutions to environmental, economic, and social challenges.”
He highlighted that over 200 scientific seminars were held last year alone, focusing on six priority goals tailored to the region’s needs, significantly bolstering the university’s standing in global Impact Rankings.
Mr. Sameh Al-Muqdadi expressed his admiration for the university’s proactive role, stating:
“The university’s leadership in SDG implementation provides a robust foundation for our collaboration. It is clear that sustainable development priorities vary across different regions of Iraq, requiring focused academic and field efforts.”
Dr. Ali Rashid praised the initiative, noting that Cihan University–Erbil’s status as a private institution allows for high flexibility and minimal administrative bureaucracy. He emphasized that this makes the university an effective partner for executing field projects in coordination with government departments to serve the community.
The meeting concluded with discussions regarding the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aims to launch joint activities that directly support UN goals, raise institutional awareness, and bridge the gap between scientific research, the labor market, and government requirements. The participants also agreed on several key recommendations to achieve comprehensive development in the health, education, environment, and economic sectors.
