Newsletter - April 2024

AUK Launches Leopard Radio

AUK successfully set up its own radio station entitled “91.5 FM – Leopard Radio,” which is now LIVE and available in Duhok and its surroundings.

The station, funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Grant titled “Supporting American-style Higher Education in Iraq,” will be used to promote journalism education and provide students with hands-on experience in mass communications. The station will air a variety of programs, including interviews, educational programming (including English-language instruction), and marketing for the University’s academic offerings and events.

Thomas Hayes, Department Chair of General Education, is serving as the director. Please contact him with your suggestions on programming.

Empowering Engineering Students with Computational Thinking

The College of Engineering at the AUK recently organized a seminar on Computational Thinking. Led by civil engineer Aween A. Abubaker, the event aimed to empower engineering students by highlighting the revolutionary potential of computational thinking in architecture and engineering. Abubaker emphasized the importance of recognizing patterns, thinking innovatively, and embracing coding to unlock endless possibilities.

AUK’s CAPA Launches Women Leadership Scholarship Program

The Center for Academic and Professional Advancement (CAPA) has launched the "She Leads" Women Leadership Certificate Program. Thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of State titled “Supporting American-Style Higher Education in Iraq”, this program provides opportunities to 20 AUK students and alumni to develop their leadership skills. The program also includes talks by educators, experts, and women leaders who share their insights and experiences.

In addition to the certificate program, CAPA aims to capture the stories of these women leaders in a book titled 'Untold.' This anthology will feature the struggles, triumphs, and dreams of these young and aspiring women leaders from the Kurdistan Region.

CPHS Lecture Series: Unveiling the Middle East Paradox

The Center for Peace and Human Security (CPHS) at the American University of Kurdistan recently hosted a lecture by Dr. Fereydoon Rahmani. Dr. Rahmani discussed his book "Rooftop Societies: The Middle East Paradox," which explores the complexities of the region. By fostering an environment that values openness and democracy, institutions like AUK play a vital role in shaping a brighter and more harmonious future.

Partnership Formed to Benefit AUK Nursing Students

AUK and Dr. Ghazi Hospital have joined to provide practicum opportunities for AUK's Nursing students. This collaboration, which commenced on April 2, 2024, aims to enhance students' practical experience and prepare them for careers in the healthcare sector.

AUK Library Hosts Author Ava Homa in Celebration of World Book & Copyright Day

The AUK Library recently hosted author Ava Homa to celebrate World Book & Copyright Day. Homa, a renowned author and activist, delivered a powerful message to AUK students, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's power and identity.

Interview with author and visiting AUK faculty member Dr. Fereydoon Rahmani

Dr. Fereydoon Rahmani, a visiting adjunct professor at AUK’s International Studies Department, delivered a lecture based on this book “Rooftop Societies: The Middle East.” We sat down with him to talk about his experience teaching at AUK. He will soon return to York University in Toronto, Canada. 

Q: What is your impression of AUK so far and why did you choose to teach at this university? 

A: My perception of AUK is that it represents a cutting-edge institution comparable to those found in developed Western countries. The architecture and structure of AUK are both impressive and indicative of a strong commitment to progress, improvement, and innovation. I first visited AUK in 2017 upon an invitation from Professor Nazar Numan, which provided me with a brief introduction to the university. However, it was the invitation to the MEPS conference last November and the subsequent offer to become an Adjunct Professor this year that truly deepened my appreciation for the people of AUK, including its administration, faculty, and students. In my view, AUK presents a unique educational opportunity, introducing its students to global perspectives and promising practical areas of study that are greatly needed in the Kurdistan Region. As a full-time Associate Professor at York University, currently on sabbatical leave, I have extensive experience working with various universities, including those in the Kurdistan Region such as Salahaddin, University of Duhok, Koya University, Lebanese French University, and Jihan University.

Q: How can AUK contribute to developing Kurdistan and the region? 

A: AUK's use of English as the primary language of instruction, coupled with its employment of internationally trained scholars, is instrumental in exposing students to globally recognized programs and fields of study. This approach not only broadens academic horizons but also promotes socio-economic and political growth. I am convinced that adopting a globalized higher education model can facilitate the internationalization of local businesses and economies, positioning AUK as a pioneering institution in the higher education landscape of the Kurdistan Region.

Q: What potential do you see in students from this region and what would be your professional advice for their careers?

A: AUK offers its students a distinctive educational experience, preparing them to become agents of change in social, political, and economic spheres both locally and regionally. By focusing on applied fields of study, implementing advanced learning strategies, and providing interdisciplinary training aligned with market demands, AUK can significantly contribute to the effectiveness of the job market. My professional advice to students is to embrace these opportunities, remain adaptable, and continuously seek to enhance their skills in line with global trends.