The Role of Women in New Media Discussed at Cihan University–Erbil Media Department

On Thursday, October 9, 2025, the Department of Media at Cihan University–Erbil organized a specialized seminar titled The Role of Women in New Media: Participation, Success, and Self-Protection, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Ahmed Jamal Hama Karim.

This seminar, delivered by journalist Berivan Anwar Khoshnaw at the Cihan Academy Hall for Training and Development, focused on the significance of media work for women. It included her personal career experiences and the decision-making process that led her to become a journalist. The seminar also highlighted the socio-cultural factors that restrict women from working in certain media roles and discussed the opportunities presented by digital platforms, explaining how these platforms have enabled women to express their voices without institutional permission.

Ms Berivan also emphasized the importance of women understanding how to protect themselves from issues, challenges, and risks encountered online, such as threats and inappropriate language, as well as strategies for dealing with harmful messages directed at them by the surrounding community during their media work. The students actively participated in the seminar. Following a discussion and exchange of views, they expressed that the seminar broadened their intellectual horizons and called for the continuation of such activities to further familiarize themselves with the situation of women in new media.

Upon completion of the seminar, the Department of Media presented a certificate of appreciation to Ms. Berivan, expressing gratitude for her presentation to the students. The significance of continuing similar academic activities to further raise students’ awareness was also emphasized.