On February 26, 2024, Cihan University of Sulaymaniyah participated in a debate on the Higher Education Roadmap for Combating Drugs and Psychotropic Substances in Erbil. Representing Cihan University of Sulaymaniyah was Professor Dr. Bamo Parwez Aziz, Vice President for Administrative and Student Affairs. Dr. Aaram Mohammed Qadir, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, delivered the welcome speech at the beginning of the debate.
The debate covered several important topics:
1. Training and Capacity Building to Combat Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
2. Integration of Drugs and Psychotropic Substances into the Curriculum: Kurdistan Universities’ Research and Development in the Field of Combating Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, represented by the Director General of the Office of Education, Planning, and Monitoring.
3. Organizing a Campaign to Combat Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
4. Utilizing Scientific Resources of Mass Media, Social Media, and Technology in the Fight Against Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
5. Activation of Student Counseling Services in Kurdistan Universities.
Efforts by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
On February 12, 2024, the Ministry convened a consultative meeting at the Council Hall to discuss its roadmap for combating drugs and psychotropic substances. Notably, 25 teachers from various disciplines in Kurdistan universities participated.
Roadmap Highlights
– The Ministry plans to establish a Board chaired by the Minister to oversee the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the roadmap in higher education institutions.
– Universities will form active focus groups to execute the roadmap under the direct supervision of the Rector.
Key Objectives
1. Training and Capacity Development:
– Continuous training for university staff and students on combating drugs, recognizing signs of addiction, and protective measures.
– Training opportunities for stakeholders, including public sector and civil society organizations, facilitated by local and international experts.
2. Curriculum Integration:
– Designing modules on Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, covering addiction science, legal aspects, and prevention strategies.
– Conducting seminars, workshops, and lectures by experts and individuals who have overcome addiction.
The Ministry aims to enrich and update the roadmap continuously, with further discussions scheduled for later works.