College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences Successfully Concluded the 2nd Annual National Workshop on World Food Day

On Thursday, October 15, 2026, the Department of Food Science and Technology at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Duhok, celebrated World Food Day by hosting the 2nd Annual National Workshop under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.”

The event was attended by the Dean of the College, Dr. Shukri Haji Saleh, the Head of the Department, Dr. Khabat Noori Hussein, faculty members, and official representatives from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Trade Centre (ITC), the Duhok Directorate of Health, local NGOs, and food manufacturing companies.

Following welcoming remarks from the College and Department leadership, Dr. Khabat Noori delivered an opening presentation on “The Role of the Department of Food Science and Technology in Building Sustainable Food Systems,” highlighting the essential role of academic research and technological innovation in bolstering food security.

The workshop featured specialized technical presentations addressing critical areas in the agri-food sector:

• Agri-Food Value Chains: Mr. Fahad Mohammed (ITC) discussed strengthening value chains and linking domestic agricultural production to markets.
• Crop Innovation & Food Security: Dr. Rafail Toma highlighted local potato innovation, presenting two new varieties with significant potential for value-added food processing.
• Food Safety & Microbiology: Dr. Issa Mousa explored the crucial benefits and risks associated with microorganisms in food production and preservation.
• Food Integrity & Authenticity: Mr. Shokri Sulaiman examined innovative technologies for detecting and preventing food adulteration and fraud to ensure consumer safety.
• Circular Food Systems: Dr. Siamand Nizar outlined modern strategies for transforming food waste into economic and nutritional value within circular economy frameworks.

The workshop provided a collaborative forum connecting academic research directly with industry stakeholders, local producers, and international development agencies. Through this successful event, the Department reaffirmed its enduring commitment to driving scientific innovation and developing practical, sustainable solutions to ensure food security across Duhok, the Kurdistan Region, and Iraq.

CAES Information Services Office, October 15, 2026

Reported by: Sipal Mohammed Taher Yousif, Bilnd Jalal H. Hambi