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 theUniversityofDuhok.
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself— something different, something that brings change,eithertomycommunityortome.
At times, it felt impossible, and at times, it was. I began by pursuing causes I was passionate about—issues I felt were deeply misunderstoodandneglected. Climate change was one of those causes. I startedbyraisingawarenessonlineandthen took it further by organizing public demonstrations. This sparked a widespread movementacrosstheKurdistanRegion,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 seedsofchangeforabetterworld.
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 pictureonaroadtrip.
I’m a creative, open-minded person, which sometimesleadstostressandindecisiveness, butIembraceitaspartofwhoIam.
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 traitsofthepeopleIlove.WhileIenjoybeing 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 studiesandthechallengeslifebrings.
Iamlookingforwardandbeyondexcitedfor continuous growth and change during my journeyinIFMSA-Kurdistanthisyear. Thanksforreadingalltheway!
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 musicandabsolutelyadoremovies.
Ifirstjoined IFMSA-Kurdistan mysecondyearat 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 wasgonnahavetogiveitmyallandIdid!! IattendedeveryprojectIcould,bigorsmall,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 beganbutthere’snodenyingthefact thatthroughmyworkhereithasbeennurtured 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 leadersarekeyinachievingthat.
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 aresoincrediblyunderratedbutinstrumentalto any Healthcare student so I highly urge any and everyonetoattendanycapacitybuildingproject 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 andfacilitatorspool!!
Zahraa Sarkawt Hawler LCBD
Darun Dlawar Koya LCBD
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 facultyofmedicine,Mypassionforglobalhealth, leadership, and student engagement has driven me to actively contribute to IFMSA and its missionofempoweringyouthinhealthcare.
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 environmentforallmembers.
My journey started when I joined IFMSAKurdistanin2022andattendedcapacitybuilding sessions, and since then, I have been deeply inspired by its ability to connect people from diversebackgroundstoworktowardsacommon goal. One of my main objectives this term is to enhancememberengagement,initiateimpactful projects,orstrengthenexternalpartnerships.
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 enrichmyperspectiveasbothamedicalstudent andaleader.
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 lastingimpact.
GreetingsCapacityBuildingenthusiasts!
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 aboutme;mylastnameisGhareeb,translateit into English it would be "Strange", I'm going to beadoctorinthefuture,so??IamDr.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.Medicineaside,Iloveeverythingabout cars, from how they're made to racing them officially.SomedayIwillmakeitthere!Another oneofmydreamsis,toputitsimply,seeingthe moon;astronomy.Thescienceofspaceandthe stars amuses me, knowing we are here but we areatinypointintheever-expandinguniverse.
Time is truly our most valuable asset. The time gonebyisgoneforever,whatwehaveleftisall wehave,aday?Amonth?Ayear?Oradecade?. Takecareofyourtimeandhowyouliveit.
Shad Jalal Sulaimani LCBD
Hello!MynameisKaniSarbast,andI’mcurrentlya 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 humanbody.Eachdayofmystudiesdeepensmy aweandappreciationforthisfield.
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 toplacesfarbeyondmyreality.
My love for the arts extends to music, particularly musicals,eversinceIhadthelovelyexperienceof 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 themeveryonceinawhile.
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 makeanefforttohaveasociallife,albeitarather 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 acquirednewskillsandgainedthecouragetotry out stuff I never thought I would before. I am particularlyenthusiasticaboutcontributingtomy 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 helpmakethisvisionareality.
Kani Sarbast Zakho LCBD
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 metoexpressmyself.
Each of these hobbies provides a unique outletformycreativityandhelpsmegrowas anindividual.
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 comestohorrororsci-fisketches.Ifindthese genres to be a great way to explore darker, more imaginative themes and let my creativityrunwild.
Music is a significant part of my conversations,anditshowswheneverImeet someoneforthefirsttime.Thetypeofmusic
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 thatreflectmyemotions.
If someone were to lose all their hobbies, theywouldlikelydiscoverthedeeperreason they enjoy them. For me, my hobbies are a waytoconnectwithmyselfandwithothers. They help me understand my feelings and expressthemincreativeways.
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 everychancetospreadjoy,andIdonotplan onbreakingthatstreak.
Thepeoplearoundusshapeus,andI’vebeen influencedthemostbymyoldersister,older cousin, and even my 9-month-old tortoiseshell cat, who has recently entered mylife.Shesonlybeenthereforalittletime butIstillloveherdearly.
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, andIwillnevergetsickofitorwanttostop.
HassanAmir
Duhok LPD
Hieveryone!
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, exploringeveryformofartIcouldduringmyfree 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 decidedtoturnthispassionintoasmallbusiness, because seeing my artwork displayed in the homes of loved ones is one of the most heartwarming experiences, and it continues to motivatemetocreatemore.
I deeply cherish my alone time, and during these times, aside from painting, I love listening to music, watching movies and series, and occasionallyreadingbooks.
When I joined the College of Medicine, I was nervousaboutnothavingenoughtimetopaintor 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 metomaintainabalancebetweenthetwo.
Joining IFMSA-Kurdistan has been one of the most eye-opening and rewarding experiences. It has allowed me to connect with other talented individualsacrossKurdistan,andI’msogratefulto beapartofsuchaninspiringcommunity.
Lazha Yadgar Hawler LPD
@lazha_paintings
I am Ahmed Hussein, I live in Hawler. I am a second-stage student at Koya University's Faculty ofMedicine.
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 videostothedrive.
Working on posts and videos sometimes takes time, but I enjoy designing and editing them. I don'tevennoticehowfasttimepasseswhiledoing it.
Akar Amanj Sulaimani LPD
Ahmad Hussein Koya LPD
Hello,fellowIFMSA-ians!
I’m Akar Amanj, a fourth-year dentistry student with a passion for making people smile (both literallyandfiguratively).
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 inspiringmetopursuethispath.
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 astudent.
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’mahugePotterhead!).
I’m happy to serve as the Local Publication Director forSulaimaniLCfortheterm2024-2025!
Looking forward to continuing this journey with all of you and making unforgettable memories along theway!
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 complexitiesofthehumanbodyanddeepenmy 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,asIbelievethatstayingphysicallyactive isjustasimportantasacademicsuccess.
Beyond my interest in medicine and fitness, I alsoenjoyplayingFIFAvideogames.Gamingisa 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 anexcitingpartofmyfreetime.
Balancingmystudies,gymsessions,andgaming 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— onethatincludesbothhardworkandenjoyable 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 totakecareoftheirbodiesandminds.Whether through my medical career, fitness journey, or personal interests, I aim to make a positive impactonthosearoundme.
Majd Amer Zakho LPD
Standing Committees Updates
Hawler LC
SCOME
Endoscopy: Acloserlookonthe18thof February.Thisactivitywasdesignedto helpparticipantsgainmoreknowledge and experience regarding the process ofphlebotomy.
Sulaimani LC
Vital signs onthe18thofFebruary:This activity was designed to help medical students strengthen their skills regarding measuring blood pressure, pulserate,respiratoryrate,temperature andoxygensaturation.
Diagnostic Criteria on the 23rd of February: The first session on this longtermactivityfocusesonthediagnosisof skincancer.
Phlebotomy,InjectionandCannulation on the 9th of February. This project aimed to equip the participants with simplemedicalskills.
Vital Signs Training on the 19th of February.Thisprojectaidedparticipants to strengthen their skills in measuring blood pressure, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, temperature and respiratory rate.
Koya LC
SCOME
Experience a Specialty: Two sessions of this long-term project were conducted with a radiologysessiononthe1stofFebruaryanda dermatologysessiononthe25thofFebruary.
Dental Club had three sessions; first session was on (Introduction to dental clinics and equipments) on the 8th of February, the secondonewason(Rootcanaltreatmentand anaesthesiology)onthe15thofFebruary,and thethirdonewason(Cosmeticdentistryand veneers) that was done on the 22nd of February.
Ambulance care and GCS application on the 15thofFebruary.Thisactivityfamiliarizedthe participants with the basic medical care providedinanambulanceandhowtoassess consciousness of patients through the GlasgowComaScale.
History Taking 101 on the 14th of February: Thisprojectwasdesignedtoeducatemedical studentsonthebasisofhistorytaking.
Introduction to medicine and the integrated system: This project aimed to introduce the integrated system of medical education to studentsintheirfirstyearofcollegeandgive themanoverviewofthecollegeofmedicine.
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.
Duhok LC
Zakho LC
Hawler LC
1.IntroductiontoExchangein IFMSA-Kurdistan:
SCOPE
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/SCOREintroduction:
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.
Penguinsession:
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.
Sulaimani LC
SCOPH
Duhok LC
Vision and hearing checkup
Dr. Mike: Why Family Medicine Matters
On January 13, 2025, a vision and hearing screening was conducted at Caillou Kindergarten to support early detection and prevention. A trained team carried out the screenings efficiently, ensuring that each child was assessed using the necessary equipment. Alongside this, parents and educators attended an awareness session focused on recognizing early signs of vision and hearing issues and the importance of preventive care. The session provided valuable information and encouraged discussions on children’s health. The activity was well-organized, with active participation from both parents and staff, reinforcing the significance of routine screenings in early childhood development. This activity will also be conducted in other LCs, so stay tuned!
For our latest video reel, we sat down with Dr. Mike, a passionate family medicinedoctor,totalkabouttheeverydayimpactofhiswork.Heshared whyhavingafamilydoctorissoimportantnotjustfortreatingillnesses,but forpreventingtheminthefirstplace.FromhisexperiencesinDuhokand Kurdistan, he spoke about common health concerns and the misconceptions that keep people from getting the care they need. More than just a conversation, this project is about bringing light into family medicineandremindingpeoplethatregularcheckupscantrulychange lives.
Vision and hearing checkup
Hawler LC
TeddyBearHospital
On January 13, 2025, a vision and hearing screening was conducted at Caillou Kindergarten to support early detection and prevention. A trained team carried out the screenings efficiently, ensuring that each child was assessed using the necessary equipment. Alongside this, parents and educators attended an awareness session focused on recognizing early signs of vision and hearing issues and the importance of preventive care. The session provided valuable information and encouraged discussions on children’s health. The activity was well-organized, with active participation from both parents and staff, reinforcing the significance of routine screenings in early childhood development. This activity will also be conducted in other LCs, so stay tuned!
Hawler LC organized a Teddy Bear Hospital activitytohelpchildrenfeelmorecomfortable with healthcare experiences. Through roleplaying,participantsexploredmedicaltoolsin afunandengagingway,helpingtoreducefear and anxiety often linked to doctor visits. Interactive sessions on hygiene and healthy habits encouraged positive lifestyle choices, while lively Q&A activities reinforced their understanding.Bytheendoftheactivity,most children could confidently identify three medical instruments, showing how creative learningcanmakeabigdifferenceinbuilding confidenceandeasingmedicalanxiety.
SCOPH
Vision and hearing checkup
On January 13, 2025, a vision and hearing screening was conducted at Caillou Kindergarten to support early detection and prevention. A trained team carried out the screenings efficiently, ensuring that each child was assessed using the necessary equipment. Alongside this, parents and educators attended an awareness session focused on recognizing early signs of vision and hearing issues and the importance of preventive care. The session provided valuable information and encouraged discussions on children’s health. The activity was well-organized, with active participation from both parents and staff, reinforcing the significance of routine screenings in early childhood development. This activity will also be conducted in other LCs, so stay tuned!
On February 26th, Koya LC hosted its annual Health Festival, bringing together medical students and the community for a day dedicated to health awareness and education. The event featured free health tests, including eye tests, random blood sugar (RBS), and bloodpressurechecks,providingvaluableinsightsinto participants’ well-being. Additionally, informative booths focused on women’s health and lung cancer awareness offered important guidance on prevention and early detection. The festival not only empowered thepublicwithknowledgeabouttheirhealthbutalso gave medical students a valuable opportunity to engage with people as future healthcare providers, fostering meaningful interactions and improving their communicationskills.
Sulaimani LC
SchoolHealthProgram
Sulaimani LC recently organized a School Health Program at Goran Basic School, providingdentalandeyecheckupsalongwith 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 studentstoadopthealthierlifestyles.
Koya LC Health Festival
Hawler LC
SCORA
Puberty Talk: On February 18th, for a PubertyTalksession,ourteamengaged2 classes of students in an interactive and informativediscussionaboutpuberty.The session began with a pre-session quiz to assess their prior knowledge, followed by an age-appropriate presentation using visualaids,real-lifescenarios,andmedical facts. Students participated in group discussionsandanonymousQ&A,creating a safe space for learning. Engagement activities such as role-playing, case studies, and games enhanced understandingandparticipation,ensuring a fun yet educational experience that empowered students with essential knowledgeaboutpuberty.
Zakho LC
Puberty Talk: On February 10th, our team conducted an interactive Puberty Talk session for 2 classes of female students,aimingtoeducateandsupport them through this crucial stage of life. Thesessioncoveredphysical,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, allowingparticipantstoaskquestionsin a safe, non-judgmental space, fostering awarenessandconfidenceinmanaging 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 andmentalwell-being,participantsalso took part in a wool craft activity, fostering relaxation and a sense of connection. This initiative successfully combineddiscussion,collaboration,and creativity to strengthen community engagement.
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 "IntroductiontoSCORP" 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.Masteringtheskillsoflife:Forselfdefense
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.
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.Blooddonation
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.
As a future medical professional, understanding the ethical challenges in psychiatry and the rights of patients is crucial to providing compassionate, responsible care. The focus was on medical ethics, patient advocacy, and stigma reduction in mental health care. The information delivered to the patients was about understanding the role of medical students in advocating for patient rights and ethical treatment in psychiatric settings, learning how to recongize and address ethical dilemmas in psychiatric care, such as informed consent and patient autonomy, and lastly learning how to approach patient care with dignity and respect taught by our experienced psychiatrists. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that psychiatric care not only fosters recovery but also protects the rights and well-being of every individual.
3. HopeineverySmile:Supportingkids withCancer:
A heartwarming initiative dedicated to bringing joy, laughter, and hope to children battling cancer. Through the smallest gestures of kindness, heartfelt conversations, and uplifting moments, it aimed to brighten their day and remind them that they were not alone in this fight. The participants brought them gifts, which made their day even more special. Supporting children with cancer is not just about providing medical treatment but also a way to offer and spread love, hope, and positivity that helps them face their challenging journey. Cancer diagnosis can be devastating for children and their families. Many children have a difficult time coming to terms with their illness; the long hospital stays and the extensive treatment they receive can take a heavy emotional toll. Treatment also comes with fear, loneliness, and physical pain. Even while enduring these challenges, children often show incredible strength. Despite the pain that one may be feeling, their smiles show resilience.
4. Climateactionforpeace:ApathtoacleanerEarth
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.
TheImpactofWaronChildren
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.
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.
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 GlasgowComaScale(GCS)application,and anICUtourtoenhancetheirunderstanding 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 wasexplained,andstudentsparticipatedin supervised exercises to assess simulated patientcases.Thesessionconcludedwitha guided ICU tour, where critical care procedures, patient cases, and life-support equipment were discussed, and active engagementwasencouraged.Atleast90% 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 studentsforfuturemedicalpractice.
Meet the incoming Meet the incoming student student
Meet the incoming student
In February, Hawler LC had the pleasure of hostingourlovelyincoming,Marianne,fora one month professional exchange. She was warmly welcomed upon her arrival and providedwith2contactpersonsandahost familytoensureherstaywascomfortable.
From the very first day, our dedicated CPs assisted Marianne in navigating the city, helpinghersettlein,andintroducingherto the medical environment. She was accommodated by a kind and hospitable hostingfamilywhomadeherfeelathome, offering her the opportunity to experience Kurdish culture traditions and daily life firsthand.
Marianne’sexchangewascenteredatoneof the medical institutions in the city, where shewasplacedunderthesupervisionofone ofHawlersfinestneurosurgeon.Shehadthe opportunity to observe and engage in various neurosurgical procedures, case discussions, and ward rounds, gaining hands-on experience that improved her clinicalskillsandmadeherperspectivemore broad. She also had the chance to interact with local medical students, which helped withbothprofessionalandculturalgrowth.
Bytheendofthemonth,Marianneleft with unforgettable memories, newly acquired medical skills, and lasting friendships.HawlerLCisproudtohave facilitated an educational, and enjoyable exchange reaffirming our commitment to high-quality internationalcollaboration.
Beyond the hospital, Marianne’s exchange experienceextendedintosocialandcultural exploration. Our team ensured she had the chancetovisitHawler’shistoricallandmarks, tastetraditionalKurdishcuisine,andengage insocialactivities.Herjourneywasnotjust academic but also a deeply cultural and enjoyableone.
LUNGGUARDIANS
CANCERAWARENESSPROGRAM: CANCERAWARENESSPROGRAM:
Lung Guardians
February marked the beginning of our Cancer Awareness Program, a year-long initiativededicatedtoeducatingthepublic aboutdifferenttypesofcancereachmonth. Theprogramkickedoffwithafocusonlung cancer, one of the most prevalent and commoncancersworldwide.
In an inspiring show of teamwork, all five Local Committees united as the Lung Guardians to spread awareness about this seriousdisease.Volunteersactivelyengaged with the public by setting up informative booths, visiting public spaces, and integratinglungcancerawarenessintotheir ongoingevents.
Through these combined efforts, the campaignsuccessfullyreachedaround1,000 people, delivering crucial knowledge about lung cancer prevention, symptoms, and treatmentoptions.
This impactful start has set a strong foundation for the months ahead, and we are excited to continue raising awareness aboutdifferenttypesofcancersthroughout theterm.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in the fight against cancer!
PCOS AWARENESS
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 misunderstoodcondition.Giventhehigh prevalence of PCOS among women and itsimpactonreproductiveandmetabolic health, raising awareness was crucial to promoting early detection and proper management.
To ensure the information was both accurateandaccessible,theprojectteam 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 simplifymedicalterminology,makingthe 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,ensuringthatlanguagewas notabarriertolearningaboutPCOS.
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 connectwithalargeraudience,including individuals who may not have had prior knowledge of PCOS. This dissemination methodallowedforgreatervisibilityand engagement, sparking conversations about women's health and encouraging thoseaffectedtoseekmedicaladvice.
Thisprojecthighlightstheimportanceof healtheducationinitiativesthatprioritize accessibility and accuracy. By providing clearandculturallyrelevantinformation, we hope to contribute to better awareness,earlydiagnosis,andimproved management of PCOS among Kurdishspeaking communities. The success of thiscampaignunderscoresthepowerof collaboration between medical professionals and media platforms in promotingpublichealth.
CRACKINGTHECASE: FORENSICANALYSISIN ACTION
Cracking the Case: Forensic Analysis in Action
How does science solve crimes and contributetojusticeandpeace?Behindthe scenesofforensicscience.
In many parts of the world, the conversion around the rights of the deceased is overlooked.
ForthefirsttimeinSCORP,delvingintothe rights of the dead was something very vaguelytalkedabout. Thisiswheremedicinemeetscrime. Anindeptheducationallectureaboutjusticeand humanrightsintheforensicsdepartment. Thisplayedapivotalroleinmentioningthe upholding of these rights during postmortem examinations and the need to conductthemwiththeutmostcare,dignity, and respect for the deceased, especially in casesofsuspiciousdeathsandunexplained murders,andmassfacilitiesmustbetreated withprofessionalismandsensitivity.
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 unravelthemysteryandthemissingpieces 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 andpreventinginjustices.
