Duhok Polytechnic University

History of Duhok Polytechnic University

Duhok Polytechnic University (DPU) is one of the leading public polytechnic universities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. DPU was established in 2012 and is headquartered in the city of Duhok, which lies in the northern part of the country and serves as the capital of Duhok Governorate. DPU was founded with the mission to provide high-quality technical and vocational education to support the region’s economic, social, and technological development.

Although DPU was officially established in 2012, its roots go back further [H1]   . The institution evolved from a network of technical institutes and colleges that had been operating in the region for many years under the administration of the Foundation of Technical Education in Iraq. When the Kurdistan Regional Government decided to establish polytechnic universities in each province, these institutes and colleges were brought together under one academic umbrella, giving birth to DPU.

Vision and Mission

DPU is dedicated to nurturing skilled technical professionals and researchers who embody advanced knowledge and innovation in alignment with global quality standards. Committed to meeting the dynamic needs of society, both locally and internationally, our mission is to provide high-quality technical education accessible to the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. By remaining at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements, we equip our graduates to address market demands effectively, contributing to scientific, economic, and social progress. Through rigorous curriculum development, strategic planning, and fostering a conducive learning environment, we strive to elevate academic excellence and enhance the university's global visibility. Our mission underscores our dedication to shaping the future of technical education and research, ultimately advancing the Kurdistan Region and Iraq as a whole.

The mission of Duhok Polytechnic University includes:

1.     Delivering high-quality technical education accessible to the populace of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

2.     Equipping technical professionals across diverse fields to address market demands and contribute to scientific, economic, and social progress.

3.     Enhancing scientific research endeavors that address community needs and challenges.

4.     Fostering a supportive work and educational environment within the university.

5.     Fostering mutually beneficial cultural and academic collaborations with both national and international institutions.

6.     Advancing postgraduate education opportunities in various technical disciplines.

7.     Enhancing the quality of academic programs and the standards of organizational management.

Academic Structure

DPU consists of multiple technical colleges and institutes spread across Duhok Governorate. These include:

1.     Technical College of Engineering - Duhok

2.     Technical College of Administration - Duhok

3.     Technical College of Health and Medicine -Shekhan

4.     Technical College of Zakho

5.     Technical College of Duhok

6.     Duhok Technical Institute

7.     Duhok Technical Institute of Administration

8.     Zakho Technical Institute

9.     Amedi Technical Institute

10. Shekhan Technical Institute

11. Shingal Technical Institute

Academic Programs

DPU offers two-year diploma programs, bachelor’s degrees (B.Sc.), and Master and Php postgraduate programs. The programs are designed to combine theoretical knowledge with Practically, preparing students to directly enter the workforce or continue their studies at higher levels. The key fields of study include engineering (civil, mechanical, petroleum) health sciences (nursing, medical laboratory, radiology) Business and administration (accounting, marketing, human resources) Information technology and computer science and Agriculture. Additionally, Duhok Polytechnic University has adopted the Bologna Process from 2019, which aims to ensure comparability in the standards and quality of higher education qualifications across Europe.

International Collaboration

Duhok Polytechnic University is committed to internationalization and has signed several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with universities and institutions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. These agreements cover areas such as student and faculty exchange, joint research, and curriculum development. DPU also participates in programs such as Erasmus+, which allows students and staff to engage in academic exchange and capacity building in partnership with European institutions. These international collaborations help to raise academic standards and provide students with global perspectives.

Community Engagement and Development

As a public institution, DPU plays a crucial role in community development in the Duhok region. Through technical training, continuing education, and consultancy services, the university supports local industries, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

DPU frequently organizes community outreach programs, including health awareness campaigns, environmental sustainability projects, and professional training workshops. The university also provides internships and cooperative education opportunities that connect students with local businesses and service providers.