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On the occasion of Pink October, and with the aim of raising awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection in safeguarding women’s health, the Gender Equality Center, in collaboration with the Baghdad Women’s Association, organized a symposium on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at 10:00 a.m., under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ari Adel, President of Duhok Polytechnic University The event was held at Azadi Hall at the Duhok Technical Institute.

At the beginning of the symposium, Dr. Kurdman Mohammed Ali, Dean of the Technical Institute of Shekhan, delivered a speech on behalf of the Presidency of Duhok Polytechnic University, stating:

“Duhok Polytechnic University is not merely an academic institution; rather, it is a bridge for communication and community service, as well as for building strong partnerships with civil society organizations.”

Dr. Kurdman Mohammed Ali also emphasized that a healthy woman is the foundation of a progressive society, and that raising awareness about breast cancer and early detection is not merely a medical responsibility, but also a humanitarian and social responsibility aimed at protecting women’s lives and ensuring the well-being of families.

Subsequently, Shahla Issa, Director of the Gender Equality Center, expressed her appreciation to the Presidency of Duhok Polytechnic University for its continued support of these awareness activities. She noted that Pink October provides an opportunity to raise women’s awareness of the importance of early breast cancer screening and stated:

“Safeguarding women’s health is a fundamental pillar for the development and progress of families and society.”

For her part, Liza Nisan Haido, President of the Baghdad Women Association, stated in her speech that Pink October is not merely an annual occasion, but rather a message of hope and life and a call for all women to take care of their health and undergo early screening. She also expressed her gratitude to Duhok Polytechnic University for organizing this important event and taking the initiative to promote cooperation and joint efforts in serving women and society.

In another part of the symposium, an awareness panel discussion was conducted, featuring Asst. Prof. Dr. Jinan Nouri Hassan, a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology; Dr. Nazik Abdulrahim Abdulkarim, a specialist in Community Medicine and Head of the Statistics Division at Omid Oncology Hospital; and Ms. Janin Salah, a cancer survivor. The participants shared scientific insights and personal life experiences with the attendees.