Interdisciplinary Collaboration for Inclusion and Equity

The Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, in collaboration with the Department of Law, Tishk International University, successfully organized a National Workshop on Disability Awareness and Inclusion in observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, held on December 10, 2025, at the Education Building, Hall 302.

This interdisciplinary academic event reflected the university’s commitment to promoting inclusion, equity, and social responsibility within both the academic environment and the wider community.

Workshop Aim and Perspectives

The workshop aimed to enhance awareness and understanding of disability from three complementary perspectives:

Perspective Focus
Healthcare Medical and rehabilitation aspects of disability
Social Inclusion, equity, and community participation
Legal Rights-based approaches and legal protections

Distinguished Speakers and Scientific Sessions

The scientific sessions featured two distinguished speakers:

Speaker Presentation Title Focus Area
Dr. Surajo K. Sulaiman “Exploring Conceptualization, Spectrum, Profiles, and Healthcare Implications of Disability” Physiotherapy and healthcare perspectives
Dr. Mohammed Abdulkarim Sharif “Legal Safeguards for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities under the CRPD, Iraqi Law, and the Kurdistan Region’s Legislation” Legal frameworks and rights protection

These presentations highlighted the complementary roles of:

  • Physiotherapy in supporting functional independence and rehabilitation

  • Legal frameworks in protecting the rights of persons with disabilities

Workshop Attendance

The workshop was attended by:

Group Affiliation
Academic staff Both Physiotherapy and Law faculties
Students Physiotherapy and Law students
Invited participants External guests and community members

The event provided a valuable platform for:

  • Interdisciplinary dialogue between healthcare and legal professions

  • Knowledge exchange on disability rights and inclusion

  • Advocacy for inclusive education and community engagement

Significance

This workshop demonstrated TIU’s commitment to:

  • Interdisciplinary collaboration across faculties

  • Promoting social inclusion for persons with disabilities

  • Advancing awareness of rights-based approaches to disability

  • Fostering community engagement through academic initiatives

Keywords: Disability Awareness, Social Inclusion, Physiotherapy and Law Collaboration, Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Interdisciplinary Education, Community Engagement, CRPD, Iraqi Law, Kurdistan Legislation, TIU Workshop