The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research recognizes Cihan University-Erbil as one of the top universities in Kurdistan
“Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir praised Cihan University-Erbil as one of the premier institutions in Kurdistan in terms of academic excellence, program diversity, international recognition, and a well-equipped campus. He highlighted the fortune of its graduates in attending this esteemed institution. Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir made this statement during his speech at the commencement of the thirteenth course of Cihan University-Erbil, which took place on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.
The Commencement Event:
The graduation ceremony featured the presence of Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, along with several ministers, advisors, directors general of the ministry, university presidents, professors, students, graduates’ families, and various government and party officials. The event commenced with the entrance of the university council, Cihan universities’ presidents and board members, followed by a moment of remembrance for the martyrs and the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.
Welcoming Distinguished Guests:
During the event, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, president of Cihan University-Erbil extended a warm welcome to Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Minister of Trade and Industry and the Minister of Transport and Communications, the Erbil Governor, officials from constitutional, government, and diplomatic institutions, as well as politicians, political party representatives, graduates’ families, graduates, and other esteemed guests attending the 13th graduation ceremony of Cihan University-Erbil.
Awarding Bachelor’s Degrees to Graduates:
In another segment of his address, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi proudly announced the graduation of 928 students from 20 different specialties for the academic year 2022-2021, in addition to 751 graduates from 21 different specialties in Erbil for the academic year 2023-2022. He emphasized that these graduates have been equipped with modern knowledge and skills to play a vital role in the development and reconstruction of Kurdistan’s future infrastructure.
Cihan University-Erbil’s Advancements:
The President of Cihan University-Erbil highlighted the remarkable development the university has undergone since its establishment as the first private university in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq in 2007. He elaborated on both quantitative and qualitative advancements, including the opening of several branch universities in Erbil, Sulaimani, and Duhok. In terms of academic departments, the university has expanded to encompass nine colleges and 27 academic departments. Regarding its quality, he pointed out the significant academic achievements of the institution, which have earned top rankings both nationally and internationally, as published in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
Cihan University-Erbil Forges 70+ Scientific Collaborations and MOUs
Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi dedicated another segment of his address to the university’s scientific endeavors. He highlighted not only the presence of a proficient and innovative academic staff but also the provision of state-of-the-art scientific laboratories for both researchers and students. Moreover, he unveiled an upcoming project, the construction of the Cihan Teaching Hospital, which is poised to serve as a vital educational center for students. In his words, ‘On both local and international fronts, our university has forged extensive scientific collaborations with educational and scientific institutions in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, the surrounding region, and the world, leading to the signing of more than 70 scientific agreements.
International Engagements:
In the international arena, the President of Cihan University-Erbil highlighted several notable scientific achievements. He elaborated on the university’s unwavering commitment to fostering the growth of researchers, educators, and students. To underscore this commitment, the university has organized and facilitated the participation of five groups of students and lecturers in various universities located in Poland, the Netherlands, and Jordan, where they have completed courses and engaged in training programs. Remarkably, Cihan University-Erbil stands as the sole private educational institution in the Kurdistan Region to be a proud partner of the Erasmus Plus program, generously supported by the European Union. This partnership has enabled the university to send multiple groups of both lecturers and students to various European Union member countries, with a particular emphasis on Poland. Furthermore, it is a source of great pride that Cihan University-Erbil boasts a total of 13 international accreditations, bestowed by prestigious academic institutions such as Germany’s Zeva and the British ASIC. Among these, 12 certificates pertain to the educational programs offered, with an additional one recognizing the university itself as an esteemed academic institution. Additionally, the university aligns itself with the Bologna process, a system that enjoys widespread adoption among many European universities.
Message to Graduates:
In his closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, turned his attention to the graduating students, delivering a heartfelt message. He expressed his joy in congratulating each of them on reaching this milestone, having dedicated four years to their studies and now being the recipients of their well-deserved bachelor’s degrees. Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi went on to convey his hope that the graduates would go on to serve their families and their nation with unwavering dedication. He acknowledged the sacrifices made over many years that led to this moment, as the graduates celebrated their achievements under the radiant flag of Kurdistan. Furthermore, he took the opportunity to express gratitude to the dedicated lecturers who tirelessly shared their knowledge and instilled a sense of scientific curiosity and patriotism in the students. He extended his appreciation to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, along with all the institutions under the Ministry’s umbrella. He also thanked the university’s lecturers and staff, the Cihan Group, and the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities for their continuous support in the field of education and science. In closing, he expressed his hope that the graduates would indeed harvest the fruits of their hard work and contribute to society and their country in alignment with their respective fields of expertise.
Minister’s Words of Congratulation:
During another segment of the ceremony, Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, took the stage to deliver an empowering speech. He urged the graduates to leverage the knowledge and expertise they had acquired at Cihan University-Erbil within their respective fields to contribute meaningfully to the development, prosperity, and advancement of the country. Dr. Aram extended his gratitude and congratulations to the families and parents of the graduates. He acknowledged the challenging journey they had undertaken, navigating obstacles, crises, and financial hardships. Despite these adversities, their collective courage and determination had enabled them to overcome every obstacle, culminating in the achievement celebrated that day.
Adapting to Educational Changes:
In his address, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research delved into the ministry’s comprehensive agenda, vision, and ongoing projects aimed at enhancing the state of education and science within universities and academic institutions in the Kurdistan Region. A primary focus is to elevate the quality of education and instill international trust in educational programs, aligning these efforts with the overarching goals and aspirations of the student community. Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir emphasized the evolving landscape in education, influenced by changes both locally and in the global labor market. In light of these transformations, universities in the Kurdistan Region must proactively seek innovative solutions to meet the dynamic demands of the local workforce. Consequently, the ministry consistently stresses the imperative of creating new intellectuals and a skilled workforce tailored to the specific needs of Kurdistan. He acknowledged that this undertaking necessitates close collaboration among all relevant parties. To address this complex challenge, he expounded in detail on the ministry’s comprehensive agenda, strategic roadmap, and the actionable steps designed to navigate this transformative journey successfully.
Minister of Higher Education: Cihan University-Erbil is one of the best universities in Kurdistan
The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research dedicated a section of his speech to elaborate on the role and significance of private universities within the higher education sector. He highlighted the annual process where students and parents carefully select universities that align with their aspirations and goals. Notably, for two consecutive years, there have been over 20,000 unfilled seats, signaling a critical need for private universities to bolster their infrastructure, intensify research efforts, and enhance their support for their human resources. By doing so, these institutions can foster collaboration, enabling them to engage in scholarly competition, a prerequisite for success.
Later, he addressed the graduates that they should take pride in their accomplishment of graduating from Cihan University-Erbil, recognized as one of the premier institutions in Kurdistan due to its outstanding programs, international acclaim, and quality. He underlined the commitment to support Cihan University-Erbil in every possible way, aspiring for academic excellence that will position the country to own institutions like Cihan University-Erbil—truly dedicated to serving the children of Kurdistan. Furthermore, the Minister expressed delight in the strong campus and infrastructure of Cihan University-Erbil and their ongoing efforts to construct a much-needed large hospital. He also extended his commendation to the Board of Trustees of the Cihan Universities for their unwavering support, always coming to the aid of the ministry and the government during challenging times.
Concluding his address, the Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and their families. He emphasized that they possess the skills and knowledge acquired at Cihan University-Erbil, which will enable them to serve and realize their goals.
Dr. Nawzad’s Message of Celebration:
In another segment of the ceremony, Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajger, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities, delivered his speech. At the outset, he extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and offered congratulations to the graduates and their families. In a different part of his speech, he underscored the post-graduation responsibilities of the graduates, wishing them success in their new mission to serve their country.
Graduates’ Oath:
At the conclusion of the event, the graduates’ representative delivered his speech. Following this, at the behest of the college deans and with the approval of Prof. Dr. Amjad Saber Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, the graduates were conferred with their bachelor’s degrees in accordance with the relevant legal provisions.
Honoring outstanding students of the University
The event concluded with the presentation of awards to the top-performing students. Dr. Aram Mohammed Qadir, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, presented the prizes to the first-place winners of Cihan University-Erbil.
