Kurdistan Technical Institute in Partnership with Hiwa Hospital Hosts the "Beyond the Ribbon" Symposium
Date : 19 - Oct - 2026
In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Pink October), the Nursing Department at the Kurdistan Technical Institute (KTI), in strategic collaboration with Hiwa Hospital, successfully held a comprehensive scientific and awareness symposium entitled "Beyond the Ribbon". The event took place at the Sheikh Fakhir Sheikh Tayeb Qaiwani Conference Hall in Sulaimani Heights.
The symposium brought together distinguished oncologists, healthcare specialists, academics, faculty members, and students, all dedicated to spreading vital awareness, highlighting the importance of early detection, and addressing the physical and psychological dimensions of cancer care.
The ceremony commenced with welcoming remarks from the Deanery of Kurdistan Technical Institute. Following the opening, the Keynote Address titled "Breast Cancer in the Kurdistan Region: From Numbers to Hope" was delivered by Dr. Zardasht Bakr Mohammed, Spokesman of Hiwa Hospital, providing invaluable statistics and inspiring insights into the ongoing efforts across the region.
The symposium agenda featured two comprehensive panel discussions followed by a specialized workshop:
Panel 1: "Battling the Storm: From Diagnosis to Treatment"
Moderated by Asst. Lect. Bnar Hassan Salih, featuring esteemed experts: Dr. Zhyan Khalil Mahmood, Dr. Didar Faeq Hamid, and Dr. Shad Mohammed Mustafa. The panel examined modern diagnostic methodologies, advanced screening protocols, and tailored oncology treatments.
Panel 2: "The New Chapter: Embracing Life After Treatment"
Moderated by Sahan Fria Omer, featuring Dr. Afram Muhammad Hassan (Psychiatrist), Dr. Rozhgar Rashid Ali (Oncologist), and Lect. Rizan Nouraldin Hassan (KTI faculty member and breast cancer survivor). The session focused deeply on psychological recovery, rebuilding self-confidence, and empowering survivors to reclaim normal daily life.
Practical Awareness Workshop:
Led by Dr. Avan Mohammed Hussein, a specialized workshop on "Self Breast Examination" was conducted, providing women with essential, life-saving self-examination techniques.
The symposium concluded with the presentation of appreciation certificates to keynote speakers, panel participants, and the official event sponsors: High Quality Hospitals (Anwar Shekha Medical City) and Bake House, commending their vital contributions to community health and awareness.
