Cihan University–Erbil Students Organize a Scientific Trip to the Kurdistan Biodiversity Project
On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, students from Cihan University–Erbil participated in a scientific trip to the Kurdistan Biodiversity Project at Bastora Dam under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Ahmed Jamal Hama Karim from the Media Department. The trip was attended by second-, third-, and fourth-year students from the Media Department; third- and fourth-year students from the Business Administration Department; fourth-year students from the Public Administration Department; and second-year students from the Accounting Department.
Upon arrival, the project’s management team warmly received the university delegation and provided introductory information about the project and its objectives.
Introduction to the Kurdistan Biodiversity Project
At the beginning of the visit, Ms. Kaziwa Aladdin, a project volunteer, introduced the Kurdistan Biodiversity Project, explaining its objectives, implementation stages, and scientific and environmental significance. She explained that the project, which is part of the activities of the Kurdistan Foundation and Climate.KRD, aims to collect, organize, and document scientific information about the plants and animals of the Kurdistan Region in a shared database. This information is intended to support scientific research, education, public awareness, and nature conservation.
Ms. Aladdin reported that the project had collected 2,252 records of plants and animals in the Kurdistan Region, including 1,408 plant records and 844 animal records.
She also explained that the project’s data is reviewed by a 27-member committee comprising representatives of the Kurdistan Regional Government, university academics, and specialized researchers. In addition, seven researchers and photographers have contributed information and photographs to the project.
Ms. Aladdin further highlighted the role of digital technology in organizing and presenting scientific information. Through its website (biodiversity.krd) and interactive map, the project makes biodiversity data accessible to researchers and individuals interested in the environment and nature. She also outlined the project’s future plans, which include expanding fieldwork, protecting and restoring natural habitats, and supporting wildlife monitoring and conservation across the Kurdistan Region.
Touring the Project and Learning About Its Working Methods
Following the presentation, the students toured the project’s exhibition sections, where they explored its displays and the methods used to present biodiversity information. They gained a deeper understanding of how data is collected, how plants and animals are classified, and how photographs and digital tools contribute to documenting the region’s natural resources.
Through discussions with the project’s staff and volunteers, the students also learned about the challenges of collecting scientific data and the importance of cooperation between academic and environmental institutions.
Importance of the Scientific Trip for Students
The scientific trip provided students from different academic departments with an opportunity to learn firsthand about a scientific and environmental initiative. It also highlighted the importance of data collection and management, teamwork, and the use of technology to serve society.
During the visit, the students expressed their interest in the project’s role in preserving the natural heritage of the Kurdistan Region and documenting its biodiversity. They also expressed their willingness to contribute to the project’s development by promoting environmental awareness and introducing the initiative to the wider community.
Conclusion of the Scientific Trip
At the end of the visit, Assistant Lecturer Ahmed Jamal Hama Karim, the supervising lecturer, expressed his appreciation, on behalf of Cihan University–Erbil, to the project’s supervisors, staff, and volunteers for their warm hospitality and for providing the students with valuable information and explanations.
