Cihan University-Erbil Inaugurates the First “Scientific Zakat” Conference, Launching a Pioneering Foundation for Knowledge Philanthropy

On Thursday December 18, 2025, Cihan University-Erbil hosted the inaugural “Scientific Zakat Conference” today, marking a significant milestone in bridging the gap between academic and societal services. The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Mr. Abdullah Mahmoud, Minister of Martyrs and Anfal Affairs; Dr. Alan Hama Saeed, Minister of Education; Mr. Falah Hassan, Head of the NGO Department; Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Dalawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil; and Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajger, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities and Institutes, alongside numerous university presidents, academic scholars, and government officials.

The conference commenced with a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs, followed by a keynote address from Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Dalawi. In his speech, he announced the official launch of the “Scientific Zakat Foundation,” describing it as a “historic opportunity and a unique model, for the Kurdistan Region and Iraq beyond.” He emphasized that the foundation aims to transform the concept of Zakat from purely financial aid to a broader horizon of cognitive and humanitarian contribution.

Prof. Dr. Delawi explained that the initiative, originally proposed two years ago by Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajger, seeks to leverage the university’s substantial human capital. “Today, Cihan institutions boast over 600 academic and scientific experts across various disciplines. This army of scholars is ready to offer their knowledge and experience as ‘Scientific Zakat’ to the community, shifting volunteerism from individual efforts to a systematic, institutionalized culture,” he stated.

The President outlined the foundation’s core objectives:

1. Empowering various societal segments by developing their skills and capabilities.
2. Creating job opportunities for youth through vocational and scientific training.
3. Providing pro bono scientific, legal, and medical consultations to those in need.

Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajger, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, delivered a speech underscoring the strategic vision of the foundation. He highlighted that Cihan University’s philosophy extends beyond the classroom to encompass “Social Responsibility” as a primary pillar. Dr. Bajger presented the roadmap and bylaws for the foundation, noting that future activities will build upon the thousands of voluntary services previously rendered by the university’s staff.

The event also featured remarks from Dr. Bashir Haddad, a prominent religious figure, and Mr. Junyoung Jong, Head of the KOICA Agency in the Kurdistan Region, both of whom commended the initiative’s potential impact on social development.

During the conference sessions, annual reports of Cihan institutions were reviewed, and the internal regulations of the Scientific Zakat Foundation were presented and ratified. The proceedings concluded with an awards ceremony honoring the leadership of Cihan Group’s universities, institutes, and schools for their outstanding contributions to community service and the promotion of scientific philanthropy over the past year.