December at AUK

Faculty of the College of Business Contribute to International Research on Decarbonization and Data Analysis

From November 3–7, AUK faculty member Dr. Olena Zhytkvych represented the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) in Kyiv at the II International Autumn School on data analysis and digital technologies. She presented her research on advanced clustering algorithms and how green investments can drive national decarbonization. The experience connected AUK with scholars from across Europe.

Students Explore Careers in Peacebuilding at AUK

On November 13, AUK’s CPHS and International Studies Department hosted peacebuilding expert Sarhang Hamasaeed for an interactive workshop with students. Participants explored real-world conflict scenarios, mapped career pathways, and reflected on the personal values that guide impactful work. The session motivated students to pursue meaningful careers in peacebuilding and development while reinforcing CPHS’s commitment to fostering knowledge, skills, and resilience among AUK’s next generation of leaders.

The College of Arts & Sciences Engages in Global Conferences and Workshops Advancing Research, Governance, and Student Success

During the month of November, faculty and staff shared ideas on student success, digital transformation, governance, and peace studies at various academic venues in Edinburgh, The Hague, Melbourne, and Erbil,. Ms. Hozan Fahmi explored new approaches to student support, Dr. Dara Sherwani highlighted AI, open governance, and public-sector innovation, and Dr. Jiyar Aghapouri contributed research on diaspora and transnational activism.

Students Go Behind the Scenes with Zakho SC

On November 25, AUK students got an insider look at professional football when the Zakho Sports Club visited campus. The delegation, including the Club President, Secretary, staff, and two first-team players, shared insights on management, talent development, and career pathways in sports. Students asked questions, heard personal stories from the players, and wrapped up the session with a meet-and-greet and photos. The event, organized by AUK Student Government, highlighted AUK’s commitment to connecting students with real-world opportunities while building community pride.

Students of the Electronic and Telecommunications Engineering Department Compete at the Biannual Robotics Competition

On November 30, AUK’s ETE Department held its biannual Robotics Competition, challenging eight student teams to design, build, and test robots in a newly designed arena. From initial orientation and design phases to testing and elimination rounds, students applied electronics, programming, and control systems in this real-world scenario. Teams also produced short videos showcasing their robots’ functions. After intense competition, the winners were The Dark Knight (1st), Nexus (2nd), and Stealth Rhino (3rd).

AUK Celebrates Giving Tuesday

On December 2, AUK marked Giving Tuesday with an afternoon celebrating generosity and creativity. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends came together to support the Financial Aid Fund, making education more accessible to those who struggle to afford their education. Highlights included short films by alumnus Sarhat Nariman, an interactive Q&A, and an art auction featuring works by AUK students, staff, and local artists. Ninety-three members of the AUK community contributed, demonstrating the power of collective giving.

AUK Students Excel at “AUK’s Got (Business) Talent”

On December 2, AUK’s College of Business hosted the first “AUK’s Got (Business) Talent,” where 11 student teams pitched their startup ideas to business leaders and academic experts. As part of the Entrepreneurship course, students applied theory to practice through market research, MVP development, and business planning. Winners were selected based on content, creativity, delivery, and business viability. The event also featured Yadgar Merani, CEO of Lezzoo, who shared entrepreneurial insights and advice.

She Leads: Women Leadership Certificate Program Graduation

On December 7, AUK celebrated 78 graduates of the She Leads Women’s Leadership Certificate Program held in Erbil on the campus of Salahaddin University. Supported by the U.S. Department of State Grant titled “Supporting American-style Higher Education”, the program has trained over 138 women in three iterations taught at Duhok, Zakho, and Erbil. Graduates completed modules in negotiation, emotional intelligence, communication, conflict resolution, feedback, and work-life balance, and contributed to Untold, an anthology of their stories. Keynote speakers Caitlin Piper, Deputy Consul General of the United States, and Jwan Rojbayani, Assistant Head of Public Relations for the Kurdistan Democratic Party, highlighted the importance of women’s leadership, while CAPA Director Loucine Hayes emphasized the graduates’ transformative impact on the region.

AUK at NECHE Annual Conference

From December 10–12, AUK’s Provost, Dr. Triona Croke, and Ms. Ajin Saadi Zawity, Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning, attended the NECHE Annual Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. As a candidate institution, AUK engaged with accreditation leaders, peer universities, and experts, exploring best practices in assessment, governance, and data-driven decision-making. The insights gained will support continuous improvement across the University, reflecting AUK’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and U.S.-style academic excellence.

Celebrating Kurdish Flag Day

On December 16, the AUK community came together on campus to celebrate Kurdish Flag Day. The Student Government distributed flyers sharing the flag’s history and significance, along with pins and mini flags. Large Kurdish flags adorned the Mustafa Barzani Building, while traditional Kurdish music filled the air.

Staff Spotlight: Yelena Sardaryan

From October 11–15, Yelena Sardaryan, AUK’s Director of Student Affairs, represented the University at the AUCCCD 76th Annual Conference in Garden Grove, California, which focused on student mental health. Presenting alongside her peer from the American University of Beirut, Ms. Sardaryan highlighted AUK’s public health–oriented approach, including peer mentoring, residence life initiatives, and student-led well-being programs. Colleagues were impressed by AUK’s integrated model, especially given regional challenges around stigma and access.

Student Spotlight: Ahmed Othman

AUK is excited to share that Ahmed Othman, a student in the Petroleum Engineering Program, has been selected for the OTC Asia 2026 Energy Education University Program in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from March 31 to April 2, 2026. Nominated under Dr. Mohammed Namuq’s supervision, Mr. Othman will attend specialized workshops and network with leading energy companies. All participation expenses are fully covered. This achievement highlights AUK’s commitment to preparing students for global opportunities.