KRG High Representative Visits the Centre for Kurdish Studies at the University of Exeter
News : 6/13/2024
Exeter, United Kingdom, www.uk.gov.krd. Karwan
Jamal Tahir, KRG High Representative to the UK, recently visited the University
of Exeter, where he was warmly welcomed by Professor Gareth Stansfield,
Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Christina Phillips, Director of the Institute of
Arabic and Islamic Studies. The reception was also attended by Dr Farangis
Ghaderi, the Director of the Centre for Kurdish Studies and various staff
members.
During the visit, discussions focused on the
programs and initiatives of the Centre for Kurdish Studies, including the
Kurdish archive digitisation program at the University of Exeter. This
ambitious project aims to digitise over 40,000 Kurdish documents and research
materials. This significant undertaking will not only preserve the rich history
and heritage of Kurdistan but also facilitate access to centuries-old Kurdish
documents, thereby enhancing scholarly research and public knowledge.
Mr. Tahir expressed his admiration for the
progress and contributions of the Centre for Kurdish Studies. He emphasised the
importance of this project and pledged full cooperation and support from the
KRG UK to ensure its success. Additionally, discussions were held on
introducing Kurdish language courses at the master's and doctoral levels, with
both parties agreeing on the need for further coordination to achieve this
goal.
As part of his visit, Mr. Tahir inaugurated an
exhibition highlighting the history of the Kingdom of Iraq's establishment,
Gertrude Bell's role in the region, and Kurdistan's struggle for independence.
This exhibition, organised in collaboration with Newcastle University, features
a collection of photographs and documents depicting key moments from World War
I, the formation of the Kingdom of Iraq, and the Kurdish quest for
independence.
Mr. Tahir lauded the University of Exeter and the
Centre for Kurdish Studies for their dedication and efforts in promoting
Kurdish history and culture. He reiterated his commitment to fostering
continued collaboration and support for future initiatives.
Exeter
13th June 2024