On November 11th – A captivating seminar was organized by English Language department titled “Beauty and Immortality in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18”. Presented by Tafan Kamal Kareem (Assis. Lect.) the seminar discussed the timeless exploration of Beauty and Immortality through the lens of William Shakespeare’s most famous beautiful sonnet- sonnet 18 “Shall I compare thee to a Summer’s Day”,
The Seminar aimed at exploring Shakespeare’s language and imagery to portray the beloved’s beauty as timeless and everlasting image. It also discussed the use of metaphor and elaborated poetic devices used to emphasize on the contrast between the breathtaking nature of a simple summer’s day and the enduring beauty of the beloved.
It also Opened the floor for questions and further discussions by allowing the participants to share their thoughts and interpretations on the idea that art, in this case, poetry can act as a medium for preserving and perpetuating the beauty of the young woman (or a friend) loved by the poet, i.e. by Shakespeare during the Elizabethan era.
By the end of the seminar, Ms. Tafan presented an official guide and a short video as a reference to William Shakespeare’s birthplace which is now an international museum, dedicated to keep Shakespeare’s heritage a life located in Staford upon- Avon.
University of Cihan Sulaimaniyah/ English department have gathered scholars and enthusiasts from around the different academic and medical institutions on 16th, December, 2023 for an international workshop that explored the dangers associated with extreme tea consumption in Bram Stoker’s literary works. The key speakers were as follows:
It provided an opportunity to discuss the evolution of attitudes towards tea and health, comparing historical perceptive with contemporary medical knowledge. This exploration raises awareness about the potential health impacts of tea consumption, addressing issues like caffeine intake, mental health, or possible interactions with modern lifestyles. It also served as a unique lens to bridge literature, historical practices and current health concerns.
This event marked a unique intersection of literary analysis and health awareness, providing a fresh perspective on Stoker’s cultural influences and the impact of seemingly innocuous elements in his works.
In a bid to delve into the complex and multifaceted experiences of women around the globe, on 24th April the English Department hosted an international workshop titled “The Journey of Womanhood: Maternity, Early Marriage, and Resilience.” The workshop, brought together scholars, activists, and policymakers from various countries to discuss and analyze the challenges and triumphs of women navigating through maternity, early marriage, and the resilience they exhibit in the face of adversity.
The workshop aimed to foster dialogue and exchange ideas with the active participation of the following scholars:
Dr. Yousuf Alrawi- Public Health Specialist, United Nations
Tafan Kamal Kareem- English Department, Cihan University of Sulaimaniyah
Ms. Rama Dibeh, Head of Languages and social sciences- Tutoring Club in Dubai.
Dr. Roza Majid- Sulaimaniyah Maternity Teaching Hospital
Dr. Batoul Hassan Khoja ( Moderator)
The professionals focused on how to empower women, especially in regions where issues such as early marriage and lack of access to education are prevalent through the works of literature, facts, statistics, and medical insights. Keynote speakers highlighted the importance of understanding the diverse experiences of women and the need for inclusive policies that address their unique needs.
One of the focal points of the workshop was the discussion surrounding early marriage and its impact on women’s lives. Participants shared research findings and personal anecdotes, shedding light on the consequences of early marriage, including limited educational opportunities, increased health risks, and restricted economic independence. Strategies to combat early marriage were explored, with an emphasis on education, community engagement, and legal reforms.
Maternity was another significant aspect of the workshop’s discussions. Participants discussed the challenges women face during pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood through example works from relevant pieces of literature selected.
The English Department successfully conducted a national workshop titled “Decoding Shakespeare: A Syntactic Journey Through His Iconic Quotes” on 5th June, 2024. The event, attended by the university president (Prof. Dr. Omed Rafiq Fatah), attracted a diverse audience of scholars and academics in various fields.
The workshop provided an in-depth analysis of Shakespeare’s use of syntax in his most famous quotes, revealing the linguistic intricacies that contribute to the timeless appeal of his works. Attendees were treated to insightful presentations from three esteemed speakers:
-Dr. Mokhalad Malik Yousif: Specializing in linguistics and an asst. prof. Dr. Mokhalad’s presentation from Cihan University, traced the evolution of English syntax from the Elizabethan and romantic era to the present day. He highlighted Shakespeare’s significant syntactic use and grammatical complexities, with its deep influence on the development of modern English language.
– *Dr. Akam Rasheed Mohammed: Specialized in literature and a lecturer at Charmoo University, Dr. Mohammed captivated the audience with his exploration of the in Shakespeare’s plays. His analysis demonstrated how Shakespeare’s literary choices enhance the contextual meaning and emotional impact of his language.
– Ms. Tafan Kamal Kareem: From English Department at Cihan University. Ms. Kareem offered a thematic analysis of Shakespeare’s quotes in relation to Emily Dickinson’s selected poems, examining the interplay between their literary decoding and thematic content. Her engaging talk provided a deeper understanding of the contextual relevance of Shakespeare’s language and heritage.
The workshop concluded with a lively Q&A session, where participants engaged with the speakers on various aspects of Shakespeare’s syntax and its broader implications. The event was hailed as an academic success, fostering a deeper appreciation for the fields of language and literature.
On October 5, 2024, Cihan University of Sulaimaniyah hosted an enlightening international workshop conducted via Google Meet, the event brought together educators and students to explore the vital intersection of language learning and literary studies.
The workshop featured distinguished speakers who shared their insights on leveraging literature to enhance language acquisition and cultural understanding. Dr. Mokhalad Malik kicked off the session with a compelling presentation on developing skills and competence through literary texts, emphasizing how stories and many literary terms can foster language development in diverse learners.
Dr. Batoul Hassan Khoja, the Special Cases Department Coordinator at Mar Qardakh International School and English Language Instructor at Catholic University in Erbil, focused on the importance of understanding culture through literature. Her discussion underscored how literature serves as a bridge to cross-cultural competence, enriching students’ perspectives and empathy.
Asst. Lect. Tafan Kamal Kareem highlighted the role of literature as a pedagogical tool, engaging learners through narratives and expressions that captivate and inspire. Her insights emphasized the potential of storytelling to create meaningful learning experiences in English language classrooms.
The workshop was facilitated by Asst. Lect. Shaimaa Muhammed Mahmood, who guided discussions and fostered interaction among participants.
The Workshop not only reinforced the significance of integrating literature into language acquisition strategies but also promoted a collaborative environment for educators to share effective teaching practices. By bridging the gap between language and literature, the event underscored the essential role of storytelling in cultivating linguistic skills and cultural awareness in students.
On October 15, 2024, the seminar hall at Cihan University Sulaimaniyah came alive with creativity and purpose as students from the English department, with support from their peers in the General Education department, presented a thought-provoking play titled “Say No to Violence!” The production featured two acts, each addressing the stark contrast between lives marked by violence and those filled with peace and happiness.
The script, penned and directed by Poshya Sttar, a sophomore from the English department, effectively conveyed the emotional weight of living in a violent environment in the first act, while the second act offered a hopeful vision of life free from such turmoil. This engaging performance aimed to raise awareness and foster dialogue about the importance of non-violence in our communities.
Complementing the play, seniors from the English department created informative posters that detailed various forms of violence—including physical, psychological, verbal abuse and domestic violence. These visuals reinforced the play’s central message: to stop violence wherever and whenever it occurs.
The event was attended by academic staff, as well as prominent university leaders, including Professor Dr. Omed Rafiq Fatah, the President of the University, and Assist. Professor Dr. Sadat Abdullah Aziz, the Vice President for Scientific Affairs. Their presence underscored the significance of the event and the university’s commitment to addressing social issues.
The day’s activities were supervised by Ms. Tafan Kamal Kareem from the English department, with overall management provided by Dr. Aras Abdalkarim, head of the department. Their guidance ensured that the event was not only a creative success but also an educational initiative that resonated with the audience.
This impactful performance exemplifies Cihan University’s commitment to student engagement and social responsibility, highlighting the vital role that students play in advocating for change within their community.
Cihan University-Erbil, in collaboration with Putra University Malaysia, successfully hosted the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering. The prestigious event took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, bringing together a distinguished assembly of academics, researchers, and industry experts.
Held under the patronage of Dr. Aram Mohammad Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the conference welcomed a large number of international, local, and Iraqi researchers. The opening ceremony featured insightful speeches, highlighting the latest advancements and research in the fields of architecture and civil engineering.
The conference was attended by the representative of the Kurdistan Region’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, along with esteemed university professors and specialists, underscoring the significance of academic collaboration and scientific progress in these vital disciplines.
During the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Prof. Dr. Amjad Sabir Al- Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, delivered a speech emphasizing the significance of academic partnerships.
Welcoming the representative of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Kurdistan Region, the delegate from Putra University, university presidents, researchers, faculty members, students, and esteemed guests, Dr. Dalo underscored the university’s commitment to global academic collaboration.
“Cihan University-Erbil maintains an extensive network of scientific relations with local, Iraqi, regional, and internationally renowned institutions,” he stated. “Every year, we organize international and joint conferences across various disciplines. This year, in collaboration with Putra University Malaysia, we are proud to co-host this prestigious event focused on architecture and civil engineering.”
In his speech at the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Prof. AL-Delawi, President of Cihan University -Erbil, highlighted the significance of the event’s core themes and the collaborative efforts behind it.
“The importance of this conference lies in its focus on the latest advancements and innovations in civil engineering and architecture,” he stated. “Equally significant is the strategic partnership between Cihan University- Erbil and Putra University Malaysia, which brings together the expertise, resources, and faculty of both institutions. This collaboration paves the way for cutting-edge research that addresses the evolving demands of the industry.”
Continuing his address at the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Prof. Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University- Erbil, shared key insights into the conference’s academic contributions and global participation.
“I would like to present some data and information about this conference,” he stated. “During the formation of the scientific committee, a total of 65 research papers were submitted by researchers, experts, and university faculty. Of these, 10 studies were not accepted, while 55 were approved. Notably, 11 of the selected papers came from international universities, including those in Britain, Australia, Iran, and Malaysia, while 43 were contributed by researchers from universities in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.”
Dr. Al-Delawi also emphasized the high-profile participation of leading experts, noting that the conference will feature three international keynote speakers from Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates, alongside two local specialists. Their expertise spans architecture, civil engineering, geotechnology, transportation, and infrastructure development, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of key industry topics.
addressing the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Prof. Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, underscored the university’s dedication to societal development and academic excellence.
“The organization and management of this conference by Cihan University-Erbil reaffirm our commitment to social responsibility,” he stated. “Our goal is to provide a scientific perspective that addresses the social, administrative, and engineering needs of regional governments. Through high-quality research, we strive to build a strong foundation of knowledge and expertise that benefits both academia and society.”
Dr. Al- Delawi emphasized that since its inception, Cihan University-Erbil has been devoted to discovering, preserving, and disseminating knowledge. He reiterated the institution’s mission to educate future generations, foster a culture of scientific research, and contribute to the advancement of various disciplines at both local and international levels.
In the closing segment of his speech at the Conference, Prof. Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University- Erbil, highlighted the remarkable academic standing of the institution. He referenced the prestigious British Times Higher Education Rankings for Specializations (Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025), where hundreds of universities from 92 countries participated.
“In these rankings, among more than 150 public and private universities in Iraq, only 12 have been recognized,” he noted. “Notably, Cihan University – Erbil has secured the top spot in the Kurdistan Region and is ranked second in Iraq, following Baghdad University.”
In the latest edition of the Clarivate InCite International Research Impact Analysis Ranking (2020-2024)—published on January 31, 2025—Cihan University -Erbil has once again solidified its position as a leading academic institution.
According to the ranking, Cihan University -Erbil secured the top spot among all private universities in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Additionally, it ranked third overall among both public and private universities in the Kurdistan Region.
The report also highlighted the university’s strong research output, with 1,076 publications indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) during this period. Moreover, these publications amassed 22,249 citations, reinforcing the university’s impact on global research and its commitment to academic excellence.
Prof. Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University – Erbil, reaffirmed the university’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence and research innovation.
“This remarkable achievement reflects our strong commitment to maintaining the highest standards in education and scientific research,” he stated. “At Cihan University – Erbil, we continuously emphasize the importance of research and knowledge exchange. Through various initiatives and strategic programs, we actively support and strengthen scientific research, ensuring that our institution remains at the forefront of academic advancement.”
Dr. Dalo highlighted that this milestone further cements Cihan University -Erbil’s reputation as a leading academic center in the region and beyond. He also emphasized the university’s role in elevating the status of private education in the Kurdistan Region, positioning it as a hub for intellectual and scientific progress.
As part of the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Prof. Dr. Mohd Johari Mohd Yusof, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Putra Malaysia, delivered a speech on behalf of his institution.
He emphasized the significance of the conference, stating, “This joint event, organized by Cihan University-Erbil in partnership with Putra University Malaysia, serves as an essential platform for scientists and researchers to exchange ideas, particularly on critical topics such as architecture and civil engineering.” Prof. Dr. Mohd Johari Mohd Yusof also acknowledged the efforts of the scientific and preparatory committees, commending their dedication in ensuring the success of the event. He extended special gratitude to Prof. Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, and the university’s faculty and staff for their outstanding work in organizing and managing the conference.
During the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering, Dr. Nawzad Yahya Bajger, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cihan Universities, delivered a key speech highlighting the significance of the conference and its focus on architecture and civilization.
After warmly welcoming both local and international guests, Dr. Bajger spoke about the critical role that civil engineering and the integration of artificial intelligence play in shaping the future of the field. He emphasized that leveraging AI can lead to groundbreaking achievements in engineering, improving not only the discipline itself but also the broader organization of societal affairs.
“Artificial intelligence holds tremendous value in organizing and enhancing life today across various sectors,” Dr. Nowzad noted. He urged universities and researchers to steer their efforts towards AI-focused research, exploring its potential to optimize various aspects of life, refine societal perspectives, and develop mechanisms for utilizing AI effectively to address challenges in civil engineering and beyond.
Later, Dr. Sabah Ibrahim Wais, Advisor to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, delivered a speech on behalf of Dr. Aram Mohammad Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
At the outset of his address, Dr. Wais conveyed Minister Qadir’s heartfelt satisfaction with the successful organization of the conference. He expressed the minister’s pride in the partnership between Cihan University-Erbil, Putra University Malaysia, and their collaborative efforts in advancing academic and scientific endeavors in the fields of architecture and civil engineering.
“The partnership between these two esteemed universities and their scientific collaboration represents a significant milestone,” Dr. Sabah remarked. He extended his gratitude to both universities for their ongoing cooperation and the valuable scientific partnership they have fostered.
In his speech, Dr. Sabah Ibrahim Wais, representing the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, praised the Cihan University – Erbil for its significant role in shaping higher education in Iraq.
He stated, “Cihan University – Erbil has emerged as one of the leading academic institutions in Iraq, a distinction achieved through its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, fostering scientific research, and promoting innovation and development across educational programs, particularly in engineering.”
Dr. Sabah emphasized that the university’s success was not accidental but rather the result of its dedication to preparing future generations with the knowledge and skills needed in engineering sciences. He continued, “Since its inception, the university has been entrusted with the responsibility of shaping a generation that is well-versed in contemporary scientific knowledge and engineering practices. This is essential for the construction and development of the infrastructure of our society and for advancing the field of construction.” He also highlighted the vital role of architects and civil engineers in driving change and development. He remarked, “Architects and civil engineers are not only implementers of projects but also thinkers, planners, and strategists. They play a critical role in shaping the future vision of our societies.”
Dr. Sabah further emphasized the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting its transformative impact on infrastructure development and the quality of life. He stated, “AI technology has become a major force in the advancement of infrastructure, and its potential to improve the quality of life is undeniable.”
He expressed confidence that AI would be a key topic of discussion at the conference, particularly in relation to scientific research that addresses its integration and potential benefits in the engineering and construction fields.
In another segment of his speech, Dr. Sabah Ibrahim Wais, shared the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and reconstruction efforts in various sectors.
He stated, “At the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Kurdistan Regional Government, we are constantly striving to achieve sustainable development and the process of reconstruction across diverse fields. We fully recognize the critical role that architecture and civil engineering play in shaping the future of our country.”
Dr. Sabah emphasized the Ministry’s efforts to foster collaboration between academic institutions, scientific research canters, and both the public and private sectors. He explained that these partnerships are essential to developing modern engineering projects that not only address the evolving needs of society but also contribute to the enhancement of infrastructure and economic development in the region.
In the latter part of his speech, Dr. Sabah Ibrahim Wais emphasized the importance of focusing on several key areas for future advancement in engineering and scientific research.
He outlined two critical factors that universities and researchers should prioritize:
In conclusion, Dr. Sabah reiterated that the conference would serve as a vital scientific platform to discuss the latest advancements in architecture and civil engineering. He also emphasized its importance as a space to exchange ideas, share expertise, and foster new innovations in the field.
The opening ceremony of the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering kicked off with a short video showcasing the accomplishments and vision of Cihan University-Erbil. Following this, the official work program of the conference began.
Over the course of two days, the conference will feature the presentation of 54 research papers across 8 separate tracks. These papers cover a wide range of topics, reflecting the latest developments and innovations in architecture, civil engineering, environmental studies, water resources, roads, and more.
Additionally, five distinguished keynote speakers will take the stage to moderate discussions on how to meet the community’s needs and strengthen the foundations of construction and reconstruction in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
Sulaymaniya, Iraq — November 11, 2024 — In observance of Armistice Day, English Department organized a thought-provoking academic workshop titled “November 11: A Literary Journey Through World War I & the Armistice Day” on November 11, 2024, at the university’s Seminars Hall. The event combined scholarly presentations, literary discussions, and creative activities, providing a reflective space for students and faculty to commemorate the historical significance of Armistice Day.
The workshop featured three distinguished keynote speakers:
Tafan Kamal Kareem, a faculty member at Cihan University, began the event with a lecture on the history of World War I and Armistice Day celebrations in British literature. She explored how the war influenced literary works, particularly poetry, and the ways in which British writers have commemorated the sacrifices made during the conflict.
Rezhen Nawzad Latif, a teaching staff from University of Sulaimania, followed with a presentation on the weapons used during World War I. Latif provided insights into the technological advancements that shaped the war and discussed the emotional depth of Wilfred Owen’s poetry, focusing on his poignant portrayals of the horrors of trench warfare.
Shaimaa Muhammed Ahmed, another faculty member from Cihan Univeristy- Sulaimaniya, concluded the series of talks with a discussion on female war poets during WWI. She highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of women writers, emphasizing their unique perspectives on grief, loss, and the impact of war.
In addition to the academic talks, students participated in a hands-on activity, crafting handmade poppy flowers—a symbol of remembrance for the soldiers who lost their lives in the war. The poppies were displayed as a tribute to the fallen and served as a visual representation of the day’s solemn reflections.
This event provided a meaningful opportunity for students to engage with the historical, cultural and literary dimensions of World War I, while also fostering creativity and remembrance on this important day.
The Department of Chemistry offered a course titled “Blood Drawing”, supervised by Ayinda Mariwan Mohsen, with laboratory assistance from Bahrang Ahmad Hussein. The course was initiated by three students: Maya Muthana from the fourth stage of biochemical analysis, Idris Khadr Hassan from the third stage of biochemical analysis, and Saman Abdullah Shukri from the second stage of general chemistry. It was conducted at the International University of Erbil over a period of three weeks, taking place every
وفقاً لتوجيهات رئيس جامعة جيهان – دهوك، الأستاذ الدكتور الدكتور زيرفان أ. أسعد، وفي إطار مبادرة الزكاة العلمية التي تعتمدها الجامعة، قامت كلية التمريض بزيارة ميدانية إلى دار الأيتام بتاريخ 26 نوفمبر 2025. وقد ضمّ الوفد كلاً من الدكتورة ليلى م. صالح، عميدة كلية التمريض، والسيدة نيفين، إضافةً إلى مجموعة من طلبة المرحلة الثانية في الكلية.
وخلال الزيارة، قام الطلبة بتوزيع الهدايا التي جهزوها مسبقاً، بالتعاون مع منظمة أمل البرلمان، على أطفال دار الأيتام، وذلك في إطار مبادرة تهدف إلى دعمهم وإدخال البهجة إلى نفوسهم.
وتهدف هذه الزيارة بالدرجة الأساسية إلى ترسيخ قيم العطاء، والمسؤولية الاجتماعية، والرحمة، والمشاركة المجتمعية لدى طلبة التمريض. ومن خلال هذه الفعالية، تسعى كلية التمريض إلى تعزيز وعي الطلبة بأهمية مساندة الفئات الضعيفة، وتقدير قيمة الإنسان وكرامته، وتشجيعهم على تبنّي دور فاعل في خدمة المجتمع.
