University of Sulaimani Aims to Place Sharbazher on the Global Tourism Map

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12-12-2024

The University of Sulaimani has launched an initiative to establish the Sharbazher region, particularly the districts of Chwarta and Mawat, as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This project aims to promote geotourism and ecotourism, generate income for the Kurdistan Region, and create sustainable job opportunities for local communities.

The initiative was unveiled during a seminar on December 11, 2024, held as part of a World Mountain Day workshop organized by the College of Science. Prof. Dr. Fazil Ahmad Lawa, a lecturer in the Department of Earth Sciences and Petroleum and supervisor of the event, announced that nine seminars had been presented, addressing topics such as mountain resources, sports, health, and the potential of converting natural landscapes into tourist attractions.

Prof. Dr. Lawa emphasized the transformative potential of the mountains, describing how areas once used as hiding places could now serve as centers for economic growth and youth employment through geotourism. He shared his vision of registering Sharbazher as a UNESCO Global Geopark, revealing that discussions with UNESCO offices in Iraq, the Middle East, and France are underway.

Dr. Lawa also highlighted the need for collaboration with local authorities, including the governors of Chwarta and Mawat, as well as environmental and forest police, to ensure the project’s success. He stressed that local community involvement would be central to the initiative, providing sustainable employment opportunities while fostering regional development.

Since 1945, over 150 master’s and doctoral theses have explored topics related to the region’s geological and ecological potential. Dr. Lawa encouraged University of Sulaimani faculty to contribute academically to the project’s realization.

World Mountain Day activities will continue on December 12, 2024, with three additional student seminars hosted by the College of Science. The celebrations will conclude with a mountaineering trip to Goizha Mountain on December 13 for university staff and faculty.

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