Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Students Presented a Seminar at Rizgary High School on The Effects of Nicotine on Memory and Academic Performance

On Monday, March 3, 2025, a group of fourth-year students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Cihan University-Erbil presented an educational seminar at Rizgary High School under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Mohammed M. Hussein. The seminar, titled The Effects of Nicotine on Memory and Academic Performance, aimed to raise awareness among the students about the negative impact of nicotine consumption on brain function, learning ability, and overall cognitive performance.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by Mr. Shamal Mohammed, the High School Director, who introduced them to the attendees and expressed appreciation for their efforts in addressing an important health topic. During the seminar, they explained how nicotine affects brain development, reduces concentration, and impairs memory retention, leading to difficulties in studying and lower academic performance. They also discussed the risks associated with smoking, vaping, and other forms of nicotine consumption, emphasizing how these habits negatively influence attention span, stress levels, and sleep quality.

The session was interactive, allowing the students to ask questions and engage in discussions about common misconceptions regarding nicotine use and its perceived effects on attention and relaxation. In the end, they provided practical advice on how to avoid nicotine addiction, manage stress through healthier alternatives, and improve cognitive function through proper nutrition and lifestyle habits.

Volunteers

# Image Name Duration Credits
1 Mohammed Hussein Raouf Mohammed Hussein Raouf 2 80
2 Cihan University – Erbil Cihan University – Erbil 2 80

On September 10, 2026, under the slogan “Zakat of Knowledge is Our Duty,” the Zakat Al-Ilm Organization, in coordination with Cihan Institute of Erbil, organized a seminar delivered by Prof. Dr. Karim Sharif Qarachatan titled: “Building a Modern Pedagogical Relationship Between Teachers and Students.” The event was held in the hall of Cihan Institute for the institute’s faculty and students, in the presence of Dr. Ali Karim Al-Zamin, Administrative Director of the Zakat Al-Ilm Organization, and Mr. Hiwa Mohammed, Director of Cihan Institute. During the session, he discussed the role of teachers and effective ways of engaging with students, concluding the seminar with an open Q&A session for the attendees.

On, June 27, 2026, in an academic ceremony attended by the Head of the Department and all faculty members, the “Scientific Zakat” training course titled “Foundation of Microbiology” was successfully concluded. The course was organized and delivered by the faculty members, Asst. Lect. Hozan Qasim and Asst. Lect. Sherwan Hussein.

During the ceremony, certificates of participation were presented to the attendees. Furthermore, the department’s presidency commended the instructors and wished the participants continued success in their educational journey and the development of their practical and hands-on skills.

As part of the ongoing activities of the Technology and Artificial Intelligence Course and within the framework of volunteer services provided by the “Zakāt al-Ilm” Foundation at Cihan University-Duhok, Mr. Bilal Hikmat Rasheed presented a lecture on August 9, 2026. The session focused on the importance of technology and artificial intelligence and their impact on various fields of work, aiming to develop and enhance the skills of the participants, who are staff members of the Khani Cultural and Media Center.