On November 24, 2024, the University of Sulaimani celebrated the conclusion of its eighth pedagogical training course with a ceremony held in the Congress Hall. The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Kosar Mohamed Ali, President of the University; Asst. Prof. Dr. Zana Mahmood, Vice President for Scientific Affairs and Postgraduate Studies; and Asst. Prof. Dr. Shirwan Hamasalih, Vice President for Student Affairs. Certificates were presented to 105 participants, all holding master’s or doctoral degrees, in recognition of their successful completion of the course.

Stam Kamil, Director of the Pedagogical Training and Academic Development Center, emphasized that the six-month program brought together lecturers from various academic backgrounds. Participants explored foundational philosophical, intellectual, and scientific concepts while engaging with innovative teaching methodologies and assessment techniques. A particular focus was placed on integrating advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance teaching and learning practices.

Mr. Kamil also underscored the broader impact of these courses, noting that they enable lecturers to advance their research and publish in esteemed academic journals, thereby contributing to solutions for political, social, and economic issues in Kurdish society. While transforming academic culture is a gradual process, the results are beginning to emerge. Since the program’s launch in 2019, participants have demonstrated a shift toward more effective and student-centered teaching, renewed enthusiasm for their profession, and the adoption of modern, innovative educational approaches.