The inauguration of the Kurdish Linguistic Institute of Cihan University takes place in a special ceremony hosted by Cihan University-Erbil
In a special ceremony held at Cihan University-Erbil, the Kurdish Linguistic Institute of the Cihan University was inaugurated. This initiative, aimed at the promotion and preservation of the Kurdish language, gathered linguists, experts, and individuals passionate about the Kurdish language.
The ceremony, which took place on October 18, 2023, featured the presence of prominent figures, including Dr. Alan Hama Saeed, Minister of Education, Assistant Professor Dr. Mohammed Kalari, Representative of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, president of Cihan University-Erbil, Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajgar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities, Mr. Omid Khoshnaw, Governor of Erbil, along with numerous teachers, Kurdish language experts, and government officials. The ceremony commenced with a moment of remembrance for the martyrs and the national anthem, ‘Ay Raqib,’ followed by a series of speeches to mark this significant occasion.
President of Cihan University-Erbil, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, expressed his gratitude for everyone who contributed to this remarkable event, emphasizing the commencement of a new phase of growth and progress for the university.
He highlighted that the Kurdish Language Institute of Cihan University represents an academic milestone for the institution, reflecting its commitment to providing opportunities for the learning and development of the Kurdish language. Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, president of Cihan University-Erbil also stressed the crucial role of language in preserving and transferring culture between nations and promoting global understanding and cooperation. Despite historical threats to the Kurdish language and culture, it has not only survived but has become one of the world’s living languages with the richest variety of dialects.
The President of Cihan University-Erbil reiterated that the Kurdish Language Institute would serve as a hub for Kurdish language enthusiasts, offering an environment for students and teachers to enhance their language skills. The university’s goal is to provide high-quality language courses at various levels and to conduct linguistic research, fulfilling its academic and national responsibilities.
He concluded by inviting academics and individuals passionate about the Kurdish language to utilize the resources and opportunities provided by the academy to enhance their linguistic abilities, contribute to the preservation and development of Kurdish language dialects, and promote cultural exchange.
Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajgar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities, expressed the long-standing plan to establish a language academy at Cihan University. He emphasized the importance of preserving the Kurdish language to ensure its survival and a brighter future. He reaffirmed the Board of Trustees’ support for the Language Academy’s success and projects at Cihan.
Assistant Professor Dr. Mohammed Hussein Ahmed, Director General- Head of Apparatus of Supervision and Quality Assurance – Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, representing Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, congratulated and commended Cihan University for its pivotal initiative. He discussed the ministry’s agenda to prioritize the Kurdish language, especially in light of the decisions and recommendations of the Kurdistan Regional Government. He said: “We have made substantial progress in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders, particularly in establishing a program for individuals, whether residing in Kurdistan or elsewhere, who aspire to learn the Kurdish language”. He also revealed plans for the establishment of international standards for Kurdish language examinations. In another part of his address, the representative of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research discussed the depth and diversity of the Kurdish language and its various dialects. Concluding his speech, he extended his best wishes for the success of the endeavors and initiatives of the Kurdish Language Academy at Cihan University.”
Mr. Hawkar Hama Faraj, Director of the Kurdish Language Academy at Cihan University, presented the academy’s roadmap, outlining its objectives and activities.
The ceremony concluded with panels dedicated to the evaluation and discussion of the Kurdish language. The establishment of the Kurdish Linguistic Institute marks a significant step towards the preservation and promotion of the Kurdish language, its culture, and heritage.”
