On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, a group of Media Department students from Cihan University-Erbil consisting of Jiyar Ismail, Jiliya Hatam, Layar Aza, Zahra Hoshang, Razgar Salih, Wadih Wasam, and Safin Akram, visited Srabsty Private School under the supervision of their Lecturer Dlan Ismail. They were warmly received by Dr. Zana, the school principal, and teachers Hala Dler, Rozhan Wrya, and Nergiz Osman.
At the beginning of the visit, Dr. Zana gave an overview of the students’ skills, the school’s educational system, and academic standards, particularly focusing on the teaching methods and expertise of the teachers in advancing the field of education.
Following this, Lecturer Dlan briefly explained the purpose of the visit, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and promoting intellectual development in educational institutions. She also highlighted the need to familiarize school students with effective ways to handle academic challenges and prepare them for their future university studies.
Subsequently, in the presence of school students, the Media Department students presented a seminar titled The Impact of Social Media: Its Positive and Negative Aspects. The seminar aimed to educate the school students about the influence of social media on their lives and how to navigate its benefits and drawbacks responsibly.
On Monday, October 27, 2025, third-year students from the Department of Media, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Ali Jalal Jaafar, presented a seminar titled “How to Benefit from Artificial Intelligence” at Nawdaran Private School. The seminar was held as part of the Department’s ongoing scientific and cultural activities.
In the first section of the seminar, student Sarkar Hussein highlighted the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in school life. He explained that AI serves as a “quick assistant,” demonstrating how it can help students solve difficult questions, summarize lengthy topics, and prepare school projects. He also emphasized the importance of using AI responsibly to enhance learning and promote independent study, rather than simply copying information. In the second section, student Zhilya Hatam discussed the benefits and risks of AI, focusing on potential issues that might affect students, such as over-reliance on AI leading to a decline in their cognitive abilities or copying entire assignments, which can mislead students when the provided information is inaccurate. She also spoke in detail about protecting one’s privacy when using various AI tools. In the concluding part of the seminar, the school students actively engaged in a discussion with the presenters, asking several questions and gaining further insight from the seminar’s content.
Finally, the supervising lecturer thanked the school principal and staff for providing this valuable opportunity to the students. In turn, the school principal expressed her appreciation and conveyed her hope that Cihan University–Erbil would continue organizing such activities in the future.
On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismail, the Department of Media at Cihan University-Erbil organized a specialized training session titled Photojournalism Techniques, conducted by trainer Samal Tofiq.
The session, which involved the participation of the Media Department students, began with Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismail highlighting the department’s efforts to further develop students’ academic level through media-related subjects and courses, focusing on a practical approach to enhance their skills.
Trainer Samal Tofiq then discussed the basics of camera operation and photojournalism techniques, explaining that progress in the media field requires professional competence and journalistic skills, including a strong understanding of photography and its different styles. Additionally, he pointed out camera techniques that enrich media content, noting that images reflect speed and deliver messages clearly.
During the session, students had the opportunity to ask questions. One of the students, Rizgar Salih, asked about the best angles for taking photos. Another student, Lawin Najat, inquired about the best types of cameras for media work.
After the question-and-answer session, Trainer Samal Tofiq explained the concept of ‘Golden Point’ or ‘Golden Ratio’ in photography, which determines the essence of a well-composed image. He also discussed different camera models and their suitability for photojournalism, stressing that media organizations seeking success must choose the right equipment for their work.
The session provides the students with valuable insights into photojournalism techniques, helping them improve their media production skills.
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, a group of second-year students from the Department of Media at Cihan University-Erbil visited Lana City Primary School under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismail.
The students were warmly received by Mr. Hawkar Hamdamin, the school principal.
During the visit, the university students delivered a seminar on internet safety in the presence of the school’s teachers and students. Their seminar emphasized the importance of informed social media engagement, sparking a lively dialogue with students through thought-provoking questions. This interactive approach encouraged open discussions and allowed students to share their perspectives on internet usage.
As part of their visit, the Media Department students created a comfortable space for students to explore their understanding of social media. They fostered a deeper awareness of both the benefits and potential risks associated with online platforms.
The seminar also addressed the legal implications of social media misuse, outlining relevant laws and penalties. Additionally, the students discussed the dangers of excessive internet use and addiction.
At the end of the visit, the teachers and students expressed their gratitude to the Cihan University-Erbil students for their valuable efforts. They appreciated the informative seminar on internet safety and its role in clarifying the impact of social media on their lives while enhancing their understanding of online safety.
On January 20, 2025, the Department of Media at Cihan University-Erbil organized a workshop titled “Fundamentals of TV Presentation and Communication Skills for Journalists,” presented by Dr. Amjad Younis Al-Janabi, an academic and media professional from Samarra Satellite Channel. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on quality education and lifelong learning. The workshop was attended by Assistant Lecturer Azwar Mehdi Qasim Agha, Head of the Media Department, along with faculty members and a large group of students.
In the first session, Dr. Amjad Younis addressed the “Fundamentals of Presentation and Dealing with the Camera.” He provided a thorough explanation of how to prepare mentally, physically, and psychologically for working in front of the camera, with a strong emphasis on practical application. His engaging teaching style, including innovative analogies like comparing a TV production team to a football team, encouraged active student participation and sparked insightful discussions.
The second session, led by Dr. Ali Munim Al-Qudah, focused on “Essential Communication Skills for Beginner Journalists.” He covered key skills such as writing, editing, using modern technology, public speaking, dialogue, reading, and non-verbal communication. Dr. Ali Munim also stressed the importance of consistent training and practice to hone these skills.
At the end of the session, Dr. Amjad Younis expressed interest in hosting Media Department students at Samarra Satellite Channel. He emphasized the value of field visits as a means of bridging theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
Assistant Lecturer Azwar Qasim Agha reflected on the workshop’s significance, stating that it plays a crucial role in “honing the skills of our students and equipping them for success in the media industry.” He also highlighted the Media Department’s ongoing effort to bring in experts from various media organizations, ensuring students stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. This workshop is part of the Media Department’s broader commitment to preparing students for the job market while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4, which emphasizes quality education.
Partnered with Xiaomi, the Department of Media at Cihan University-Erbil hosted a Photography workshop for students. The workshop, which focused on mobile photography, portrait photography, and photo editing, provided participants with hands-on experience and valuable insights from industry professionals.
Mr. Hussien Faleh Raheem, a local photographer, led the workshop, shared his expertise, and guided students through various techniques and exercises. Participants had the opportunity to try out Xiaomi’s latest smartphone cameras, learn composition and lighting techniques, and edit photos using professional software.
‘‘This collaboration with Xiaomi provided students with a unique learning experience and access to cutting-edge technology’’, said Azwar Qasim Agha, Head of the Media Department. ‘‘We are committed to providing our students the opportunities to develop their skills and connect with industry leaders,’’ he added.
The workshop was well-received by students, who expressed their appreciation for the practical knowledge and skills gained.
This initiative highlights Cihan University-Erbil’s dedication to providing students with practical as well as industry-relevant training and fostering collaborations with leading companies such as Xiaomi.
As part of the ongoing scientific activities and efforts to raise student awareness, second-year students from the Department of Media at Cihan University–Erbil delivered a scientific seminar titled “Electronic Addiction” for the students of Cihan International School–Erbil. The seminar was presented by Rzgar Salih, Yusuf Ahmad, Layar Aza, and Nergiz Amir on Thursday, October 23, 2025, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Ali Jalal Jaafar.
The supervising lecturer and students were received by Mr. Mahmoud Imad Mohammed, the school principal, who emphasized the importance of conducting such activities to raise students’ awareness about the dangers of addiction to electronic devices.
The seminar began with Rzgar Salih, who provided a general overview of addiction and its types, presenting several examples from a medical perspective to the attending students. Following that, Yusuf Ahmad discussed the effects and dangers of addiction to electronic devices, emphasizing its negative impact on both mental and physical health.
Layar Aza then discussed how a person can identify and recognize addiction to electronic devices, to promote early treatment. The last presenter, Nergiz Amir, explained the methods and strategies that students can use to protect themselves from and overcome addiction to electronic devices.
Finally, Mr. Mahmoud Imad thanked the Department of Media and its students for conducting the seminar. He also expressed his hope that similar activities would continue to raise student awareness and help protect them from the dangers and harms of electronic device addiction.
As part of its academic initiatives, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, students from the Media Department at Cihan University–Erbil, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismael Mawlood, organized an academic visit to Fenk Private School in Erbil.
At the beginning of the visit, the students and their supervising lecturer were warmly received by Mrs. Dalia Jasim Mohammed Al-Hamdani, Director of Fenk School. The director emphasized the importance of such activities and praised the Media Department at Cihan University–Erbil for its efforts in protecting students during this era of intensive digital connectivity.
The activity took the form of a seminar presented in Arabic by third-year Media Department students Mustafa Taghlub Ahmed, Yousif Ahmed Khudhair, and Tamar Amer Yahya.
In the first section, student Yousif Ahmed discussed the definition and various forms of media violence, providing a detailed analysis of how this phenomenon can cause psychological anxiety and social isolation among youth. In the second section, Mustafa Taghlub highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and explained how students can protect themselves from electronic attacks and create a safer online environment through simple and practical measures. Finally, student Tamar Amer discussed the available hotlines designed to support self-protection and help individuals seek assistance from relevant authorities when facing a cyberattack.
At the end of the event, Mrs. Dalia Jasim thanked the students for their efforts and encouraged the continuation of such initiatives, expressing her hope that these activities would contribute to preparing and developing a healthy generation capable of dealing intelligently with technological advancement.
On Sunday, October 19, 2025, a group of students from the Media Department at Cihan University–Erbil, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismael Mawlood, conducted a scientific visit to Zagros Basic School in Erbil to carry out an awareness activity on the misuse of mobile phones and social media networks.
Upon arrival, the students and their supervising lecturer were warmly welcomed by Mr. Ihsan Othman Mawlood, the school director. Mr. Ihsan expressed his appreciation to Cihan University–Erbil for organizing the initiative and emphasized the importance of such educational activities, particularly as students’ dependence on digital devices continues to grow.
The activity took the form of a seminar presented by two fourth-year Media Department students, Dhuha Arjumant Jamal and Soleen Tayeb Abdulrahman. In the first part of the seminar, Dhuha Arjumant discussed the concept of media violence and its psychological and social impacts on youth and society as a whole. In the second part, Soleen Tayeb explored the principles of digital protection, highlighting the importance of awareness and strategies to prevent electronic attacks and encourage safe and responsible use of digital devices.
At the end of the visit, Mr. Ihsan Othman Mawlood thanked the students for their efforts and expressed his hope that such activities would continue in the future, contributing to the development.
On Monday, October 13, 2025, students from the Department of Media at Cihan University–Erbil, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Dlan Ismael Mawlood, conducted a scientific visit to Ban Private School in the Havalan neighborhood and organized an awareness activity.
The supervisor and students were warmly received by Mrs. Narmin Ahmed Mustafa, the school principal, who expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the Department of Media at Cihan University–Erbil for their initiative in organizing this awareness activity and seminar for the school’s students. She also emphasized the importance of such initiatives, particularly in today’s era, when students are heavily exposed to communication devices and electronic media.
The activity included a seminar on “Electronic Media Misuse,” presented to 11th-grade students by third-year Media Department students.
In the first part of the seminar, student Qaraman Jawhar discussed the types of media violence and their effects on individuals and society, explaining how such violence can lead to negative psychological and social consequences among students.
In the second part, student Sarkar Hussein focused on self-protection mechanisms against media violence and methods of addressing such threats, including digital security management and protection of personal information.
Subsequently, student Layar Aza highlighted the law on combating the misuse of communication devices and discussed the availability of communication hotlines for self-protection and reporting to relevant authorities when encountering electronic attacks.
At the end of the activity, Mrs. Narmin Ahmed Mustafa, principal of Ban Private School, thanked the supervising instructor and the Media Department students for organizing this scientific and awareness-raising event. She also expressed her hope for the continuation of such activities, which aim to foster awareness and build psychologically and socially healthy individuals within society.
