Students from the Medical Microbiology Department Participate in Erbil International Toastmasters Academy Training Course
Fourth-year students from the Medical Microbiology Department at Cihan University–Erbil participated in a professional training course organized by the Erbil International Toastmasters Academy, an internationally recognized institution for public speaking and leadership development.
The training course was held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Fern Café Training Hall, with the participation of members from both the Erbil Toastmasters Club and the Mosul Toastmasters Club. It was attended by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ameena Sabah Mahmood Juma, Head of the Medical Microbiology Department at Cihan University–Erbil, who is also a trainer and member of the Erbil International Toastmasters Academy.
The training course focused on systematic preparation for Toastmasters speech contests, beginning at the club level, progressing to the area level, which includes Iraq and Egypt, and advancing to the district level, covering Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Additionally, the participants were introduced to the rules and structure of speech contests, methods for effective speech organization, delivery techniques, and evaluation standards used in competitive public speaking. The sessions were interactive, allowing students to engage in discussions, practical exercises, and learn from the experiences of Toastmasters members from various regions.
Furthermore, the program highlighted the international pathway of Toastmasters competitions, in which successful district-level participants qualify to compete in the International Speech Contest in the United States, representing one of the highest levels of public speaking excellence worldwide. Notably, the event also saw the participation of Mr. Meran Bassam, a graduate of the Medical Microbiology Department at Cihan University–Erbil and an active Toastmasters member.
At the end of the course, the participants expressed their appreciation for the practical knowledge gained, emphasizing the importance of such programs in enhancing their communication skills, confidence, and leadership abilities.
