The University of Sulaimani, in collaboration with the Karimi Alaka Foundation, hosted a prestigious scientific conference on November 27, 2024, celebrating the legacy of renowned Kurdish scholar Sheikh Mohammed Khal.
Held at the university’s congress hall, the event drew a distinguished audience, including Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, Vice President of the Kurdistan Region; Professor Dr. Kosar Mohamed Ali, President of the University of Sulaimani; Hama Hama Saeed, Minister of Culture and Youth; Dr. Haval Abubakr, Governor of Sulaymaniyah; as well as vice presidents, faculty members, government officials, and religious leaders.
In his opening remarks, Professor Dr. Kosar Mohamed Ali emphasized the university’s dedication to honoring Kurdish intellectuals. “Today, we proudly gather to reflect on the enduring contributions of Sheikh Mohammed Khal. The University of Sulaimani remains steadfast in its commitment to recognizing the achievements of Kurdish luminaries while fostering academic innovation rooted in cultural heritage,” he stated.
Key speeches were delivered by Shakhawan Sadiq on behalf of the Karimi Alaka Foundation, Dr. Aras Mohammed from the organizing committee, and Akhtar Sheikh Mohammed Khal representing the Khal family. The university presented an honorary award to Sheikh Khal’s family as a tribute to his contributions.
A documentary chronicling Sheikh Khal’s life and achievements provided attendees with an overview of his impactful work in history, literature, linguistics, and the preservation of scholarly manuscripts.
The conference’s second session featured seven academic panels exploring various dimensions of Sheikh Khal’s life and legacy. Discussions highlighted his pivotal role in cultural preservation and his influence on Kurdish intellectual and literary fields, showcasing his lasting impact.
This conference underscores the University of Sulaimani’s dedication to celebrating and preserving the rich intellectual heritage of the Kurdish people.