Issue six

2024-2025 ISSUE: Six

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LCBDs

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LPDs

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SCOME

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SCOPE

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SCOPH

13

SCORA

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SCORP

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Ambulance Care and GCS application

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2

3 (SCOME) M

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IFMSA-Kurdistan

Meet the incoming student (SCOPE)

22

Lung Guardians (SCOPH) Pcos awareness (SCORA)

23 24

Cracking the case: forensic analysis

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in action (SCORP)

4 Newsletter Team Our contacts

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Adam Jutyar Ali Duhok LCBD Good day, everyone! My name is Adam Jutyar, and I am the Local Capacity Building Director for Duhok’s Local Committee. I’m currently a second-year medical student at the University of Duhok.

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself— something different, something that brings change, either to my community or to me.

At times, it felt impossible, and at times, it was. I began by pursuing causes I was passionate about—issues I felt were deeply misunderstood and neglected.

Climate change was one of those causes. I started by raising awareness online and then took it further by organizing public demonstrations. This sparked a widespread movement across the Kurdistan Region, with global warming awareness campaigns in various cities. After starting college, I discovered IFMSA-Kurdistan, which became the fertile ground where I could plant my seeds of change for a better world.

What drives me is the constant desire to try new things. It brings me a sense of security and self-awareness. I love capturing moments—both the ordinary and extraordinary—through photography, whether it’s a morning coffee or a family picture on a road trip.

I’m a creative, open-minded person, which sometimes leads to stress and indecisiveness, but I embrace it as part of who I am.

I also enjoy creating various forms of art.

Spending quality time with family and friends is something I deeply value, and I’d describe myself as a mosaic of the different traits of the people I love. While I enjoy being around others, I tend to be shy when approaching new people and don’t do so often. If there’s one thing I’d say defines me, it’s that nature brings me peace. It’s my personal escape from the demands of my studies and the challenges life brings.

I am looking forward and beyond excited for continuous growth and change during my journey in IFMSA-Kurdistan this year.

Thanks for reading all the way!

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Hello! My name is Zahraa, I’m 20 and I’m a 4th year pharmacy student. I love reading and I’m an avid book collector, I enjoy various types of music and absolutely adore movies.

I first joined IFMSA-Kurdistan my second year at uni after an entire semesters worth of deliberation, I’m a all or nothing type of person so I knew if I wanted to join an organization I was gonna have to give it my all and I did!!

I attended every project I could, big or small, I’ve worked in SWG’s, worked behind the scenes, lead and assisted in projects and much more until I eventually decided to apply to a position within the local board. My love for public health started long before my journey in IFMSAKurdistan began but there’s no denying the fact that through my work here it has been nurtured and cultivated. Now I’m even more confident and ambitious when it comes to giving back to the community and I think having a strong backbone and educating tomorrow’s young leaders are key in achieving that.

Zahraa Sarkawt Hawler LCBD

I believed I had a knack for getting through to people and was heavily convinced behind capacity buildings mission and vision and that’s why I applied for the LCBD position and I’ve never been happier. Capacity Building projects are so incredibly underrated but instrumental to any Healthcare student so I highly urge any and everyone to attend any capacity building project or training happening within your local board, on a national level or an international level and don’t forget to apply for the national trainers and facilitators pool!!

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

My name is Darun dlawar, and I am currently serving as the Local Capacity Building Director (LCBD) for IFMSA-Kurdistan in Koya LC. I am a fourth stage medical student in Koya University faculty of medicine , My passion for global health, leadership, and student engagement has driven me to actively contribute to IFMSA and its mission of empowering youth in healthcare.

Darun Dlawar Koya LCBD

In my role as LCBD, I am responsible for overseeing local activities, coordinating with committee members, and ensuring that projects align with IFMSA goals. I firmly believe that teamwork and communication are the foundation of impactful projects, and I strive to foster a collaborative and supportive environment for all members.

My journey started when I joined IFMSAKurdistan in 2022 and attended capacity building sessions, and since then, I have been deeply inspired by its ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal. One of my main objectives this term is to enhance member engagement, initiate impactful projects, or strengthen external partnerships.

Outside of IFMSA-Kurdistan, I am passionate about social behavior and communication with people who have different set of beliefs and advocating for mental health, which I believe enrich my perspective as both a medical student and a leader.

This term, my vision is to empower members through training, establish sustainable projects, or strengthen the voice of our local committee. I firmly believe that with the incredible team we have and the shared passion for making a difference, we can achieve things that leave a lasting impact.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Greetings Capacity Building enthusiasts!

I hope each and every one of you is doing amazing ! My name is Shad Jalal, a 3rd year medical student at the University of Sulaymaniyah, College of Medicine. A fun fact about me; my last name is Ghareeb, translate it into English it would be "Strange", I'm going to be a doctor in the future, so?? I am Dr. Strange. I was born in Sulaimani but have spent most of my childhood in Ranya province. Growing up, I had zero interest in becoming a doctor, even after 12th grade I didn't like it. Nonetheless, I have gotten into the department and it is growing on me; the idea of saving people and giving them hope for a better day seems fulfilling. Medicine aside, I love everything about cars, from how they're made to racing them officially. Some day I will make it there! Another one of my dreams is, to put it simply, seeing the moon; astronomy. The science of space and the stars amuses me, knowing we are here but we are a tiny point in the ever-expanding universe.

Shad Jalal Sulaimani LCBD

In life, I enjoy the simple things; waking up and seeing the light shine is truly one of the greatest blessings we have. If I had one advice to give, it would be to always have your eyes on the clock.

Time is truly our most valuable asset. The time gone by is gone forever, what we have left is all we have, a day? A month? A year? Or a decade?.

Take care of your time and how you live it.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Hello! My name is Kani Sarbast, and I’m currently a third-year medical student. I have a deep passion for learning, and my journey in medicine has opened up a mesmerizing world, allowing me to explore the fascinating complexities of the human body. Each day of my studies deepens my awe and appreciation for this field.

When I’m not occupied with lectures and academic obligations, I find comfort in fiction.

Reading allows me to escape into richly crafted worlds brought to life by some of the most imaginative and creative writers, transporting me to places far beyond my reality.

Kani Sarbast Zakho LCBD

My love for the arts extends to music, particularly musicals, ever since I had the lovely experience of watching my uncle perform in one when I was just seven years old. The live performances captivated me, and I still find joy in listening to them every once in a while.

I try to pick up new hobbies, such as sketching and crocheting. While I wouldn't consider myself an expert in either, I genuinely enjoy the happiness they bring me. I always look for new activities to spend my time on. Rest assured, I do make an effort to have a social life, albeit a rather modest one, centered around a small group of friends whom I value and love spending time with.

Recently, I’ve become involved with IFMSAKurdistan, an experience that has broadened my horizons. Through this organization, I have acquired new skills and gained the courage to try out stuff I never thought I would before. I am particularly enthusiastic about contributing to my local committee, aiming to ensure that future students at Zakho University enjoy the same opportunities that students in other cities across Kurdistan experience. With dedication, I hope to help make this vision a reality.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

My name is Hassan, and I became an artist simply because I enjoy the things I create.

These include playing piano, cooking, drawing, video editing, novel writing, video games, and many other activities that allow me to express myself.

Each of these hobbies provides a unique outlet for my creativity and helps me grow as an individual.

When it comes to video editing, I focus on funny, short, and modern humor videos. I love the challenge of condensing a comedic moment into something quick and impactful. On the other hand, I also have a passion for drawing, particularly when it comes to horror or sci-fi sketches. I find these genres to be a great way to explore darker, more imaginative themes and let my creativity run wild.

Music is a significant part of my conversations, and it shows whenever I meet someone for the first time. The type of music I enjoy is emotional rock, with My Chemical Romance, Jhariah, and other similar artists and bands serving as my primary influences.

Their music speaks to me deeply and helps me express different feelings, which in turn inspires me to create songs in similar genres that reflect my emotions.

If someone were to lose all their hobbies, they would likely discover the deeper reason they enjoy them. For me, my hobbies are a way to connect with myself and with others.

They help me understand my feelings and express them in creative ways.

Hassan Amir Duhok LPD

Loving myself is a core pillar of my life, and I strive to let that love radiate outward for others to feel. I never miss an opportunity to bring a smile to someone’s face, embracing every chance to spread joy, and I do not plan on breaking that streak.

The people around us shape us, and I’ve been influenced the most by my older sister, older cousin, and even my 9-month-old tortoiseshell cat, who has recently entered my life. Shes only been there for a little time but I still love her dearly.

I love living, thinking, and experiencing a range of emotions—happiness, sadness, anger, and disgust. Exploring andembracing these emotions is something I do every day, and I will never get sick of it or want to stop.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Hi everyone!

My name is Lazha Yadgar, and I am a third-year medical student at Hawler Medical University. I am originally Koyee but was born in Hawler.

Growing up, I’ve always been drawn to creativity, exploring every form of art I could during my free time whether it was sketching, painting, knitting, or embroidering has been my thing. Among all these, painting became my true passion and has been a part of me since childhood. Over time, I decided to turn this passion into a small business, because seeing my artwork displayed in the homes of loved ones is one of the most heartwarming experiences, and it continues to motivate me to create more.

Lazha Yadgar Hawler LPD

@lazha_paintings

I deeply cherish my alone time, and during these times, aside from painting, I love listening to music, watching movies and series, and occasionally reading books.

When I joined the College of Medicine, I was nervous about not having enough time to paint or losing interest in it. That changed when I discovered IFMSA-Kurdistan, which provided the creativity and inspiration I was searching for, especially through the LPD position. IFMSAKurdistan has become a bridge between my medical journey and my passion for art, enabling me to maintain a balance between the two.

Joining IFMSA-Kurdistan has been one of the most eye-opening and rewarding experiences. It has allowed me to connect with other talented individuals across Kurdistan, and I’m so grateful to be a part of such an inspiring community.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

I am Ahmed Hussein, I live in Hawler. I am a second-stage student at Koya University's Faculty of Medicine.

I joined IFMSA-Kurdistan in 2023, and now I am Koya’s Local Publication Director (LPD) for the term.

This summer, I took several design courses, which made me more interested in this field within IFMSA-Kurdistan.

I design posts for Facebook and stories for IFMSAKurdistan’s Instagram. I also publish projects after they are completed and upload the photos and videos to the drive.

Working on posts and videos sometimes takes time, but I enjoy designing and editing them. I don't even notice how fast time passes while doing it.

Akar Amanj Sulaimani LPD

Ahmad Hussein Koya LPD

Hello, fellow IFMSA-ians!

I’m Akar Amanj, a fourth-year dentistry student with a passion for making people smile (both literally and figuratively).

My journey into dentistry started when I was just a kid visiting the dentist! That passion only grew stronger when my sister became a dentist, further inspiring me to pursue this path.

Joining IFMSA-Kurdistan has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It’s given me the chance to meet so many inspiring people, work on projects that actually make a difference, and learn so much beyond the classroom. Being part of this community has truly shaped my experience as a student.

Outside of all these, I enjoy watching movies, reading books and listening to music. And if you’re into Harry potter, we’ll definitely have a lot to talk about (I’m a huge Potterhead!).

I’m happy to serve as the Local Publication Director for Sulaimani LC for the term 2024-2025!

Looking forward to continuing this journey with all of you and making unforgettable memories along the way!

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Hi, I’m Majd, a 20-year-old medical student at Zakho University, currently in my third year. My journey in medicine is both challenging and rewarding, as it allows me to explore the complexities of the human body and deepen my understanding of health and wellness. My passion for a healthy lifestyle goes beyond my studies—I actively work on improving my physical fitness by going to the gym regularly.

Strength training and maintaining a balanced diet have become essential parts of my daily routine, as I believe that staying physically active is just as important as academic success.

Beyond my interest in medicine and fitness, I also enjoy playing FIFA video games. Gaming is a great way for me to unwind and have fun, especially after long study sessions. FIFA, in particular, allows me to challenge myself, strategize, and compete with friends, making it an exciting part of my free time.

Majd Amer Zakho LPD

Balancing my studies, gym sessions, and gaming has taught me valuable skills like time management, discipline, and perseverance.

Whether it’s pushing myself to lift heavier weights, mastering a new medical concept, or improving my FIFA gameplay, I always strive for progress. I believe that a well-rounded lifestyle— one that includes both hard work and enjoyable activities—is key to personal growth and happiness.

As I continue my journey in medicine, I look forward to learning more about health, fitness, and overall well-being. My goal is not only to succeed academically but also to inspire others to take care of their bodies and minds. Whether through my medical career, fitness journey, or personal interests, I aim to make a positive impact on those around me.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Standing Committees Updates

IFMSA-Kurdistan IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCOME Hawler LC Endoscopy: A closer look on the 18th of February. This activity was designed to help participants gain more knowledge and experience regarding the process of phlebotomy.

Sulaimani LC Vital signs on the 18th of February: This activity was designed to help medical students strengthen their skills regarding measuring blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, temperature and oxygen saturation.

Diagnostic Criteria on the 23rd of February: The first session on this longterm activity focuses on the diagnosis of skin cancer.

Koya LC Phlebotomy, Injection and Cannulation on the 9th of February. This project aimed to equip the participants with simple medical skills.

Vital Signs Training on the 19th of February. This project aided participants to strengthen their skills in measuring blood pressure, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, temperature and respiratory rate.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCOME Duhok LC Experience a Specialty: Two sessions of this long-term project were conducted with a radiology session on the 1st of February and a dermatology session on the 25th of February.

Dental Club had three sessions; first session was on (Introduction to dental clinics and equipments) on the 8th of February, the second one was on (Root canal treatment and anaesthesiology) on the 15th of February, and the third one was on (Cosmetic dentistry and veneers) that was done on the 22nd of February.

Ambulance care and GCS application on the 15th of February. This activity familiarized the participants with the basic medical care provided in an ambulance and how to assess consciousness of patients through the Glasgow Coma Scale.

History Taking 101 on the 14th of February: This project was designed to educate medical students on the basis of history taking.

Introduction to medicine and the integrated system: This project aimed to introduce the integrated system of medical education to students in their first year of college and give them an overview of the college of medicine.

Zakho LC Experience a Specialty: A session of this long-term project were conducted on the 9th of February with a session on radiology in the radiology department of the Zakho hospital.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCOPE Hawler LC 1.Introduction to Exchange in IFMSA-Kurdistan: Exchange programs are a cornerstone of IFMSAKurdistan, offering invaluable opportunities for medical students to gain international clinical and research experience. As one of the key pillars of our organization, it is essential for every member to have a solid understanding of how these programs function. This project was successfully carried out, ensuring that members are well-informed about the exchange opportunities available to them.

2. SCOPE/SCORE introduction: An on-ground project was successfully conducted in Halwer LC, where our dedicated LEOs and LORE led an informative session covering all aspects of SCOPE and SCORE. This initiative provided members with a comprehensive understanding of these standing committees, highlighting their significance and the opportunities they offer within IFMSA-Kurdistan.

Sulaimani LC Penguin session: A project held in Sulaimani LC, where a SCOPE outgoing, with the support of LEOs, hosted a session at the teaching hospital to share their exchange experience, its benefits, challenges faced, and how to overcome them.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCOPH Vision and hearing checkup On January 13, 2025, a vision and hearing screening was conducted at Dr. Mike: Why Family Medicine Matters Caillou Kindergarten to support early detection and prevention. A trained team carried out the screenings efficiently, ensuring that each child was For our latest video reel, we sat down with Dr. Mike, a passionate family assessed using the necessary equipment. Alongside this, parents and medicine doctor, to talk about the everyday impact of his work. He shared educators an awareness session focused recognizing early why havingattended a family doctor is so important not just foron treating illnesses, but signs of vision and hearing and From the importance of preventive for preventing them in the issues first place. his experiences in Duhokcare. and Kurdistan, he spoke about common and health concerns and the The session provided valuable information encouraged discussions on misconceptions keep people from getting the care theyparticipation need. More children’s health. that The activity was well-organized, with active than just a conversation, is about bringing light family from both parents and this staff,project reinforcing the significance of into routine medicine and reminding people that regular checkups can truly change screenings in early childhood development. This activity will also be lives. conducted in other LCs, so stay tuned!

Duhok LC

Vision and hearing checkup Hawler LC 13, 2025, a vision and hearing On January screening was conducted at Caillou Teddy Bear Hospital Kindergarten to support early detection and prevention.

A trainedateam carried the Hawler LC organized Teddy Bear out Hospital screenings efficiently, ensuring that each child activity to help children feel more comfortable with healthcare experiences.

Through rolewas assessed using the necessary equipment. playing, participants explored medical tools in Alongside this, parents and educators a fun and engaging way, helping to reduce fear attended an awareness session focused on and anxiety often linked to doctor visits. recognizing early signs of vision and hearing Interactive sessions on hygiene and healthy issues the importance preventive care. habitsand encouraged positiveoflifestyle choices, The session provided valuablereinforced information and while lively Q&A activities their encouraged discussions understanding.

By the endon of children’s the activity,health. most children could confidently identify three The activity was well-organized, with active medical instruments, showing how creative participation from both parents and staff, learning can make a big difference in building reinforcing the significance of routine confidence and easing medical anxiety. screenings in early childhood development.

This activity will also be conducted in other LCs, so stay tuned!

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCOPH Koya LC Vision and hearing checkup On January 13, 2025, a vision and hearing screening was Health Festival conducted at Caillou Kindergarten to support early detection and26th, prevention. trainedits team carried out On February Koya LCA hosted annual Health Festival, bringing togetherensuring medicalthat students and the the screenings efficiently, each child was community for a day dedicated to health awareness assessed using the necessary equipment. Alongside and education. The event featured free health tests, this, parents and educators attended an awareness including eye tests, random blood sugar (RBS), and session focused on recognizing early signs of vision and blood pressure checks, providing valuable insights into hearing issues and the importance of preventive care. participants’ well-being.

Additionally, informative The session valuable information booths focusedprovided on women’s health and lung and cancer encouraged discussions on guidance children’son health.

The awareness offered important prevention and early detection.

The festival onlyparticipation empowered activity was well-organized, withnot active the public with parents knowledge health the but also from both andabout staff, their reinforcing gave medical students a valuable opportunity to significance of routine screenings in early childhood engage with people as future healthcare providers, development. This activity will also be conducted in fostering meaningful interactions and improving their other communication skills.LCs, so stay tuned!

Sulaimani LC School Health Program Sulaimani LC recently organized a School Health Program at Goran Basic School, providing dental and eye checkups along with a seminar on healthy living. A total of 120 students participated in the program, benefiting from both the health screenings and the informative session. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good hygiene, nutrition, and overall well-being, empowering students to adopt healthier lifestyles.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORA Hawler LC Puberty Talk: On February 18th, for a Puberty Talk session, our team engaged 2 classes of students in an interactive and informative discussion about puberty. The session began with a pre-session quiz to assess their prior knowledge, followed by an age-appropriate presentation using visual aids, real-life scenarios, and medical facts. Students participated in group discussions and anonymous Q&A, creating a safe space for learning. Engagement activities such as role-playing, case studies, and games enhanced understanding and participation, ensuring a fun yet educational experience that empowered students with essential knowledge about puberty.

Zakho LC Puberty Talk: On February 10th, our team conducted an interactive Puberty Talk session for 2 classes of female students, aiming to educate and support them through this crucial stage of life.

The session covered physical, emotional, and psychological changes during and after puberty, including menstrual health, personal hygiene, and coping strategies. Using visual aids, colored notes, and a uterus model, we ensured clarity and engagement. The session concluded with an open discussion, allowing participants to ask questions in a safe, non-judgmental space, fostering awareness and confidence in managing puberty.

Thread of resilience: a safe space: On February 20th, our lovely Zakho LC members organized a SCORA engagement session focused on creating a safe space for discussion, SCORA project improvement, and creative expression.

The event encouraged open conversations, allowing our members to share their emotions and thoughts on SCORArelated topics. A guided discussion gathered feedback on enhancing SCORA’s impact. To promote creativity and mental well-being, participants also took part in a wool craft activity, fostering relaxation and a sense of connection. This initiative successfully combined discussion, collaboration, and creativity to strengthen community engagement.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORP Duhok LC 1. Introduction to SCORP: Fostering Human Rights and Peace As the world tackles ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and global health inequalities, the need for advocacy has never been more crucial.

SCORP plays a significant role in empowering and educating medical students to address human rights violations and to promote peace in the healthcare community.

To broaden the perspective, an introduction to SCORP was organized for the students to get a better scope into the world of SCORP. It aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of SCORP’s mission, vision, and main focus areas. For all the medical students who were new to SCORP or curious about how projects are done and how it impacts our society. It was an interactive and captivating session where they were interested in conducting and leading projects.

The "Introduction to SCORP" project was successfully done and brought together a group of medical students passionate about human rights. Participants left with a better understanding of SCORP. SCORP serves as a reminder that it’s not only about treating disease but also about protecting human dignity, seeking justice, and fostering peace.

2. Mastering the skills of life: For selfdefense A dive into the world of martial arts and self-defense for an exciting self-defense training took place at Max Gym under the guidance of professional coaches.

A preliminary training was given on conflict management to help students develop essential skills.

This project was not only about enhancing physical skills but also about helping students develop confidence and resilience.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORP Duhok LC 3. Doctor’s role in court: Bridging the gap between medicine and law An info-graph that insightfully covered the introduction and the basics of a doctor’s role in court.

Have you ever wondered why doctors are called onto the stand, what their role is, what challenges you might face when presenting medical evidence in court, and how to overcome them? And lastly, how might you as a future doctor prepare for one if you ever found yourself in that kind of situation?

Please check our Instagram page to read and learn more about this matter :)

Hawler LC 1. Blood donation A 2-day project featuring an informative seminar by Dr.Nashweran, followed by a visit to the blood bank.

Blood donation is an important life-saving gesture, and raising awareness is essential for saving lives in our communities.

The first day of the project began with an engaging and insightful seminar led by Dr. Nashweran, who started by giving an overview of blood physiology, pathophysiology, and some of the illnesses related to the topic. He then went on to explain the importance of blood donation and the kind of patients in need of blood donation. He also mentioned the eligibility and the safety concerns while donating blood. It was also an opportunity to ask any questions, discuss concerns, and inspire participants to take action and donate blood. The second day was a visit to a local blood bank, where the participants had the chance to take action and donate blood.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORP Hawler LC 2. An Ethical Dive Into The Psychiatric 3. Hope in every Smile: Supporting kids Hospital: An Intersection of Mental with Cancer: Health and Human Rights A heartwarming initiative dedicated to bringing joy, laughter, and hope to As a future medical professional, children battling cancer. Through the understanding the ethical challenges in smallest gestures of kindness, heartfelt psychiatry and the rights of patients is conversations, and uplifting moments, it crucial to providing compassionate, aimed to brighten their day and remind responsible care. The focus was on them that they were not alone in this fight. medical ethics, patient advocacy, and The participants brought them gifts, which stigma reduction in mental health care.

The information delivered to the patients made their day even more special.

Supporting children with cancer is not just was about understanding the role of medical students in advocating for patient about providing medical treatment but rights and ethical treatment in psychiatric also a way to offer and spread love, hope, and positivity that helps them face their settings, learning how to recongize and challenging journey. Cancer diagnosis can address ethical dilemmas in psychiatric be devastating for children and their care, such as informed consent and patient autonomy, and lastly learning how families. Many children have a difficult to approach patient care with dignity and time coming to terms with their illness; the long hospital stays and the extensive respect taught by our experienced treatment they receive can take a heavy psychiatrists.

By addressing these issues, we can ensure emotional toll. Treatment also comes with fear, loneliness, and physical pain. Even that psychiatric care not only fosters while enduring these challenges, children recovery but also protects the rights and often show incredible strength. Despite well-being of every individual. the pain that one may be feeling, their smiles show resilience.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORP Hawler LC 4. Climate action for peace: A path to a cleaner Earth A day well spent in Sami Abdulrahman Park dedicated to environmental restoration and sustainability. The activities included a park clean up, interactive discussions on eco-consicuouss living and a community picnic that concluded the event. With pollution and littering on the rise, it is crucial to take immediate action in the hopes of influencing others to do the same.

Climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a peace-building issue.

Through that, we can minimize the risk of conflict and create a cleaner and more sustainable world for future generations. Climate action is only the beginning step of a long list of necessary measures for a sustainable planet.

Sulaimani LC The Impact of War on Children War is a catastrophic force that leaves everyone unhinged, but its lasting effects are often seen in children, who are the most vulnerable among us. Children of war face the most challenges, whether mentally, physically, or their education-well being during the conflict or its aftermath. This can shape the rest of their lives, interfering with their growth, health, and future.

Mentally, they experience stress, anxiety, and trauma. The aftermath is PTSD, depression, and difficulty reconnecting to the world.

Physically, they experience malnutrition and weakened immunity, while during the ongoing war, they endure injuries, disease, and inadequate healthcare. They might end up with long-term health issues.

Educational changes include the closing of schools during war, which causes children to miss out on education. Reestablishing education systems after war is difficult.

In conclusion, war leaves deep scars on children, affecting their minds, bodies, and futures. The trauma, injury, and loss they experience can shape their lives for years.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

SCORP Zakho LC A day of love and kindness at Salih Orphan Center.

Spending a day with the orphans, sharing joy, laughter, and love.

A truly heartwarming experience where spending a day made a significant difference in their lives as they often long for connection and affection. For icebreaker activities, we chose to play games to create a friendly and comfortable atmosphere for the children. Music, dance, and storytelling were also a part of this. This was more than an event; it was a mission of love and kindness, and every shared moment reminded us of why we do this–to make a difference, bring hope, and ensure no child feels alone. They taught our medical students gratitude, humility, and resilience and not to take our loved ones for granted.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

IFMSA-Kurdistan

Ambulance Care and GCS application On February 15th, a 1.5-hour interactive session was conducted at Azadi Teaching Hospital for 20 medical students, providing hands-on training in ambulance care, the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) application, and an ICU tour to enhance their understanding of emergency and critical care procedures.

Inside the ambulance, essential life-saving equipment such as the stretcher, defibrillator, oxygen delivery systems, and suction devices was demonstrated, and hands-on practice was facilitated. The GCS was explained, and students participated in supervised exercises to assess simulated patient cases. The session concluded with a guided ICU tour, where critical care procedures, patient cases, and life-support equipment were discussed, and active engagement was encouraged. At least 90% of students demonstrated proficiency in ambulance care and GCS application, with success measured through observation, participation, and post-session feedback.

Through this structured and interactive approach, both theoretical knowledge and practical skills were acquired, preparing students for future medical practice.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Meet the incoming student

IFMSA-Kurdistan

Meet the incoming student In February, Hawler LC had the pleasure of hosting our lovely incoming, Marianne, for a one month professional exchange. She was warmly welcomed upon her arrival and provided with 2 contact persons and a host family to ensure her stay was comfortable .

From the very first day, our dedicated CPs assisted Marianne in navigating the city, helping her settle in, and introducing her to the medical environment.

She was accommodated by a kind and hospitable hosting family who made her feel at home, offering her the opportunity to experience Kurdish culture traditions and daily life firsthand.

By the end of the month, Marianne left with unforgettable memories, newly acquired medical skills, and lasting friendships. Hawler LC is proud to have facilitated an educational, and enjoyable exchange reaffirming our commitment to high-quality international collaboration.

Marianne’s exchange was centered at one of the medical institutions in the city, where she was placed under the supervision of one of Hawlers finest neurosurgeon. She had the opportunity to observe and engage in various neurosurgical procedures, case discussions, and ward rounds, gaining hands-on experience that improved her clinical skills and made her perspective more broad. She also had the chance to interact with local medical students, which helped with both professional and cultural growth.

Beyond the hospital, Marianne’s exchange experience extended into social and cultural exploration. Our team ensured she had the chance to visit Hawler’s historical landmarks, taste traditional Kurdish cuisine, and engage in social activities. Her journey was not just academic but also a deeply cultural and enjoyable one.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

LUNG GUARDIANS CANCER AWARENESS PROGRAM: A POWERFUL START

IFMSA-Kurdistan

Lung Guardians February marked the beginning of our Cancer Awareness Program, a year-long initiative dedicated to educating the public about different types of cancer each month.

The program kicked off with a focus on lung cancer, one of the most prevalent and common cancers worldwide.

In an inspiring show of teamwork, all five Local Committees united as the Lung Guardians to spread awareness about this serious disease. Volunteers actively engaged with the public by setting up informative booths, visiting public spaces, and integrating lung cancer awareness into their ongoing events.

Through these combined efforts, the campaign successfully reached around 1,000 people, delivering crucial knowledge about lung cancer prevention, symptoms, and treatment options.

This impactful start has set a strong foundation for the months ahead, and we are excited to continue raising awareness about different types of cancers throughout the term.

Stay tuned for more updates and join us in the fight against cancer!

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

PCOS AWARENESS

IFMSA-Kurdistan

PCOS Awareness On February 1st, 2025, our team of dedicated medical students and healthcare professionals in Zakho LC posted a video online about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This initiative aimed to educate the general public about this common yet often misunderstood condition. Given the high prevalence of PCOS among women and its impact on reproductive and metabolic health, raising awareness was crucial to promoting early detection and proper management.

To ensure the information was both accurate and accessible, the project team worked meticulously to develop a wellstructured script. The content covered essential topics, including PCOS symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and management strategies. Special care was taken to simplify medical terminology, making the video easy to understand for individuals with no medical background. This approach ensured that the message reached a wide audience, empowering women with knowledge about their health.

The video was professionally produced, integrating engaging visuals, informative voiceovers, and background music to enhance viewer engagement. Every element was carefully designed to maintain interest while effectively conveying critical information.

By delivering the content in Kurdish, the video was tailored to reach local communities, ensuring that language was not a barrier to learning about PCOS. After completion, the awareness video was shared on Noshnews, a widely followed online platform, maximizing its reach and impact. By utilizing a trusted media source, the project was able to connect with a larger audience, including individuals who may not have had prior knowledge of PCOS. This dissemination method allowed for greater visibility and engagement, sparking conversations about women's health and encouraging those affected to seek medical advice.

This project highlights the importance of health education initiatives that prioritize accessibility and accuracy. By providing clear and culturally relevant information, we hope to contribute to better awareness, early diagnosis, and improved management of PCOS among Kurdishspeaking communities. The success of this campaign underscores the power of collaboration between medical professionals and media platforms in promoting public health.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

CRACKING THE CASE: FORENSIC ANALYSIS IN ACTION

IFMSA-Kurdistan

Cracking the Case: Forensic Analysis in Action How does science solve crimes and contribute to justice and peace? Behind the scenes of forensic science.

In many parts of the world, the conversion around the rights of the deceased is overlooked.

For the first time in SCORP, delving into the rights of the dead was something very vaguely talked about.

This is where medicine meets crime. An indepth educational lecture about justice and human rights in the forensics department.

This played a pivotal role in mentioning the upholding of these rights during postmortem examinations and the need to conduct them with the utmost care, dignity, and respect for the deceased, especially in cases of suspicious deaths and unexplained murders, and mass facilities must be treated with professionalism and sensitivity.

Forensic science plays a crucial role in solving crimes and upholding justice. By using various scientific techniques such as DNA analysis, toxicology, and pathology to unravel the mystery and the missing pieces of the puzzle. For the first time, the focus shifts towards the overlooked rights of the deceased, emphasizing the importance of treating the deceased with the utmost respect and care during postpartum investigations. The session intersected forensic science with justice and human rights, maintaining transparent procedures and preventing injustices.

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IFMSA-Kurdistan

Newsletter Team

Malak Zuhair Head of Graphic Design

Arblina Adeeb Graphic Designer

Lina Zana Graphic Designer

Arin Fahmi Newsletter Chief Editor

Elan Abubakr Content Creator

Talan Mustafa Content Creator

Senna Najeeb Newsletter Chief Editor

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