Erbil, May 27, 2025 — In a strong show of commitment to public health and sustainable development, the Applied Science Faculty at Tishk International University (TIU) organized a powerful and inspiring workshop titled “Empowering Communities Against Tobacco” on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025. The event was held in collaboration with the Cybersecurity and Nutrition and Dietetics Departments, drawing a diverse audience of academic leaders, healthcare experts, media professionals, and students.
Held in anticipation of World No Tobacco Day (May 31), a global campaign initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to highlight the dangers of tobacco use, the workshop served not only as a platform for awareness but as a call to action for building a healthier, tobacco-free future within and beyond the university.
The event was honored by the presence of Asst. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ozdemir, Vice President for Academic Affairs, along with respected Deans from the Faculties of Applied Science, Nursing, and Dentistry, as well as Vice Deans, Heads of Departments, Coordinators, Academic Staff, Research Assistants, and an enthusiastic gathering of students. Adding depth and expertise to the event were distinguished speakers [Prof. Dr. Faiq Hussain, Ms. Soghetha Dawood, and Dr. Hemin Ibrahim].
The workshop was further elevated by the presence of Dr. Aras Bradosty, a skilled physician, respected medical presenter, and prominent media figure. His dedication to health advocacy and collaboration added significant value to the event, reinforcing the university’s mission to blend academic insight with public outreach. Special thanks were extended to the Rudaw Media Network for attending and providing professional coverage of the workshop, helping to amplify its message across the broader community.
This timely event also reinforced the university’s alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being,
SDG 4: Quality Education, and
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
As emphasized during the closing remarks, the workshop was more than just a gathering of minds, it was a declaration of TIU’s ongoing commitment to a tobacco-free university environment and its broader role in empowering communities through education, advocacy, and sustainable health practices. With growing momentum and dedicated leadership, Tishk International University continues to pave the way toward a healthier, more conscious society.