UGCO

Building Bridges Between UOD, Government, and Society.

The University Government and Community Relations Office (UGCO) is a strategic unit within the Directorate of Media and Public Relations (DOPR) at the University of Duhok (UOD). UGCO is the primary link between the University and local, regional, and national government entities, as well as community organizations and stakeholders. Through advocacy, engagement, and partnership-building, UGCO ensures that UOD maintains strong, mutually beneficial relationships with the communities it serves.

Our Mission

To foster meaningful partnerships with government institutions and community stakeholders in support of UOD’s mission in education, research, and regional development.

Our Strategic Role

The UGCO enhances UOD’s visibility and credibility through:

• Liaison with Government Bodies: Engaging with ministries, regulatory agencies, municipal authorities, and elected officials.

• Public Affairs Strategy: Coordinating government relations aligned with UOD’s strategic planning and institutional priorities.

• Community Engagement: Supporting UOD’s civic responsibility and impact through local partnerships and outreach.

• Policy Advocacy: Promoting UOD’s interests in national and regional education policy discussions.

• Protocol and Dignitary Relations: Managing official visits and representing UOD at government ceremonies and events.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and interpret policy developments affecting higher education.

• Facilitate campus visits by government officials and delegations.

• Provide guidance to UOD leadership and units on engaging with government agencies.

• Develop and maintain a contact registry of government and civic stakeholders.

• Promote university priorities, research, and success stories to key policymakers.

• Support the University’s involvement in public consultations and community dialogues.

Strategic Framework for Engagement

UGCO follows a four-pillar engagement framework:

1. Government Relations

• Regular communications with the Ministry of Higher Education and other agencies

• Participation in national education forums

• Coordination of formal institutional agreements

2. Community Partnerships

• Engagement with NGOs, civil society, and local councils

• Organizing public lectures, cultural activities, and outreach programs

• Promoting volunteerism and service learning among students

3. Stakeholder Alignment

• Ensuring that internal university stakeholders align messaging and actions with UOD’s public policy agenda

• Hosting workshops and training sessions for staff engaging in government-related projects

4. Event and Protocol Coordination

• Planning and managing official visits and dignitary hosting

• Assisting with UOD’s representation in high-profile public ceremonies and conferences