The American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) recently hosted the Sulaimani Diabetes Forum, a significant event dedicated to diabetes awareness, research, and collaboration. This event, organized in partnership with Pioneer Pharmaceutical Company and KTC, brought together medical professionals, educators, and students to discuss the latest advancements in diabetes treatment, research, and preventive strategies. 

The forum opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Haval Abubakr, Governor of Sulaymaniyah, followed by Associate Professor Dr. Mohamed Nawzad, Interim Dean at the AUIS College of Pharmacy and AUIS President, Dr. Bilal Wahab. Their messages emphasized the value of community engagement and cooperation among healthcare institutions, local authorities, and academia in addressing diabetes—a growing health challenge in the region and beyond. 

Key speakers included Dr. Goran Ibrahim Lalasan, HR and Medical Services Manager at KTC, and Prof. Dr. Shwan Rashid, Advisor for Quality Management at Pioneer, who delivered an insightful speech and presentation on quality standards in diabetes care. Dr. Dahat Jamal Hawezy from the Kurdistan High Council of Medical Specialties also presented a comprehensive overview of diabetes, shedding light on current treatment and management practices. 

The event featured an engaging panel discussion moderated by Ms. Goshan Karadaghi, AUIS Dean of Students, with panelists Dr. Dahat Jamal Hawezy, Cardiologist Dr. Hussein Murad, and Clinical Pharmacist Mr. Hawkar Qadir. Their dialogue covered pressing issues related to diabetes management, patient care, and the impact of community health education. 

For students, especially those studying pharmacy and medicine, the forum provided a unique opportunity to learn from experts, engage in critical discussions, and understand the challenges and advancements within the field of diabetes. Events like these are invaluable for students, offering exposure to real-world healthcare issues, fostering connections with professionals, and underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to health crises.