Nutrition and Dietetics Department Students Presented a Seminar on The Link Between Diet and Immunity

On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, a group of fourth-year students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Cihan University-Erbil presented a seminar titled ‘The Link Between Diet and Immunity’ at Sarwaran High School under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Mohammed M. Hussein.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by Mr. Ahmed Ali, the school supervisor, who introduced them to the attendees and expressed appreciation for their efforts in promoting health awareness. During the seminar, they explained how essential nutrients such as vitamins C, D, and E, zinc, and antioxidants contribute to a strong immune response. They discussed the negative impact of poor dietary habits, including excessive sugar intake, processed foods, and nutritional deficiencies, which can weaken immunity and make the body more susceptible to infections. The seminar also highlighted the importance of a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support immune health.

To make the session more interactive, they involved the audience in discussions on practical steps to improve diet for strong immunity, including the role of hydration, the impact of gut health on immunity, and the benefits of meal planning. The seminar concluded with an open Q&A session, where students asked questions about the effects of fasting on immunity, how stress influences immune function, and ways to boost immunity naturally.

This seminar provided high school students with essential knowledge about the relationship between diet and immune health, equipping them with practical tools to make informed dietary choices. It also allowed the presenters to enhance their public speaking and communication skills while inspiring younger students to adopt healthier eating habits to strengthen their immunity and overall well-being.

Volunteers

# Image Name Duration Credits
1 Mohammed Hussein Raouf Mohammed Hussein Raouf 2 75
2 Cihan University – Erbil Cihan University – Erbil 2 75

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.