UNAI member institution Koya University proudly announces the launch of the “Koya University Sustainability and Environment Protection Prize”, a landmark initiative aimed at encouraging excellence in environmental stewardship, sustainable innovation, and climate action across academic institutions in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and beyond.
The prize was officially launched during a high-level ceremony on May 15, 2025, at Koya University’s main campus. The event brought together regional policymakers, representatives of international organizations, environmental activists, and academic leaders, underscoring the university’s growing reputation as a regional hub for sustainable development.
Recognizing Green Leadership in Academia
This annual award recognizes individuals, research teams, student groups, and institutions that demonstrate exceptional commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on climate action (SDG 13), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), sustainable cities (SDG 11), and responsible consumption (SDG 12).
Winners of the prize receive not only formal recognition but also a financial grant to expand their sustainability-related projects or research. The 2025 prize was awarded to a team of engineering students for their innovative greywater recycling system designed for remote villages in the Kurdistan Region.
A Key Milestone in the Green University Initiative
The prize represents a critical milestone in Koya University’s broader Green University Initiative, launched in 2024 as part of the university’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan. The initiative has already led to the introduction of electric buses, solar panel installations, tree-planting campaigns, and the integration of environmental topics into curricula and campus life.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Dr. Mohammed H.S. Zangana, President of Koya University, stated:
“This prize is more than an award — it is a symbol of our university’s unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future. Through education, innovation, and community action, we are preparing the next generation to be the guardians of our planet.”
Supporting Global Sustainability Goals
As an active member of the United Nations Academic Impact, Koya University has aligned its academic and operational strategies with the SDGs and continues to lead environmental awareness efforts in the region. The “Sustainability and Environment Protection Prize” reflects this commitment, encouraging a culture of environmental responsibility within higher education and the broader community.
For more information on this subject, please visit the following links
https://koyauniversity.org/ku/node/1321
https://koyauniversity.org/ku/node/1325
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