Asst. Prof. Dr. Jassim Mohamed Abdo, Vice President of the University of Zakho for Scientific Affairs, participated in the NAFSA 2026 Annual Conference & Expo, held in Orlando, Florida, USA, from 26–29 May 2026. The conference brought together thousands of academics, university leaders, policymakers, researchers, and representatives of higher education institutions from more than 150 countries, reaffirming its position as one of the world's most influential gatherings in the field of international education and academic exchange.

Held under the theme “Global by Design,” NAFSA 2026 provided a distinguished international platform for advancing dialogue, fostering innovation, and strengthening collaboration across the global higher education sector. The conference program featured 196 educational sessions, 39 community dialogues, 239 poster presentations, 17 professional workshops, and contributions from more than 860 presenters. The accompanying International Education Expo hosted over 300 exhibitors, 50 national delegations and educational consortia, and 20 pavilion programs, showcasing innovative educational initiatives, services, and opportunities for international cooperation.

The University of Zakho delegation comprised Dr. Jassim Mohamed Abdo, Vice President for Scientific Affairs; Ms. Dieman Jacksi, Global Engagement and Institutional Communication Advisor; and other university representatives. Throughout the conference, the University of Zakho maintained a notable presence by presenting its academic programs, innovative initiatives, research accomplishments, and strategic efforts to expand international partnerships in alignment with the University of Zakho Vision 2030.

As part of the university’s scholarly contribution to the conference, Ms. Dieman Jacksi delivered a presentation addressing the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into higher education at the University of Zakho. Her presentation contributed to international discussions on sustainability, innovation, and educational transformation, while also highlighting the experiences and perspectives of higher education institutions in the Kurdistan Region.

During the conference, the University of Zakho delegation engaged in a series of high-level meetings with university leaders, international organizations, and representatives of higher education institutions from around the world. These discussions focused on expanding opportunities for academic and research collaboration, promoting faculty and student mobility, exchanging expertise and best practices, and developing joint educational and research initiatives. Several prospective Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and collaborative projects were explored, reflecting the university’s growing commitment to internationalization and sustainable global engagement.

Commenting on the significance of the participation, Dr. Jassim Mohamed Abdo emphasized that NAFSA 2026 provided an exceptional opportunity to strengthen the University of Zakho’s international profile, expand its network of strategic partners, and explore new avenues for academic and research cooperation. He noted that international collaboration remains a cornerstone for advancing innovation, promoting intercultural understanding, enhancing academic excellence, and increasing institutional impact.

The University of Zakho remains committed to fostering meaningful international partnerships that support academic excellence, research advancement, knowledge exchange, and sustainable development. Through active engagement in global academic forums, the university continues to enhance its international standing and create new opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers.

The University of Zakho extends its sincere appreciation to the President of the University for his continuous support, guidance, and commitment to strengthening the university’s international presence and promoting its achievements in global academic and educational platforms.

Building upon the success of its participation in NAFSA 2026, the University of Zakho looks forward to further expanding its international engagement and actively participating in NAFSA 2027, scheduled to be held in Los Angeles, California, under the theme “Future Ready Together.”