Raparin University deputy president resigns as nepotism allegations spark campus protests

SULAYMANIYAH — Peshawa Hamid, deputy president of Raparin University, resigned on Sunday amid allegations of nepotism tied to recent faculty appointments that sparked protests by students and staff who are calling for transparency and accountability in the hiring process.

The recent hiring, formalized on Oct. 6, saw the Kurdistan Region’s Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research approve 395 new lecturer positions at Raparin University. The expansion aimed to address staffing needs, but many argue that current lecturers on temporary lecture-wage contracts should have been prioritized for the new positions.

Following the publication of the new hires, allegations emerged suggesting that some of the appointees were relatives of university officials, prompting widespread outcry and organized protests. Dr. Hamid’s resignation comes as he seeks to distance himself from the controversy, citing perceived favoritism as the impetus behind his decision.

In a Facebook statement, Hamid emphasized his commitment to integrity during his 12-year tenure in various leadership roles at the university. “Throughout my time at the university, I have upheld my responsibilities with integrity, supporting hundreds of students in becoming qualified lecturers. However, I have never once recommended my own family members for such positions,” he stated.

He further explained that he had received a call asking him to submit documents for his brother, a 14-year graduate, as part of what was described as a broader arrangement. “I submitted the documents as any other citizen would, respecting his qualifications. But when the final list was released, I realized this was within the official selection process,” he said. “I had no prior knowledge of these developments, and to protect my family’s reputation and honor, I am stepping down as Deputy President,” he concluded, noting he will remain as a lecturer.

Lava Mohammed, one of the top three graduates from Raparin University who remains unemployed, voiced her frustrations to 964media, saying, “We, the top graduates of universities and institutes, are here demanding our rightful employment, as unqualified individuals have been appointed in positions we deserve. Universities should stand as pillars of society and centers of academia, yet a few individuals with political connections have placed their own relatives and acquaintances in roles that should have gone to us. This situation has left us in a very poor mental state. Each time we’re promised employment, it’s empty words, while now, some individuals with scores as low as 50 have been appointed over us.

“This practice will continue to degrade academic standards, discouraging students from striving for high grades and excellence. It’s become a system rooted in favoritism and connections rather than merit.”

Mohammed added, “We will persist in peaceful protests, and if these efforts bring no results, we intend to file formal complaints against the university through the courts.”

The resignation has added fuel to ongoing protests, where graduates and faculty members gathered outside the university, alleging that relatives of university leaders, some without necessary qualifications or experience, were appointed over more eligible candidates. Calls for accountability have escalated, as demonstrators urge the university to review the appointments and ensure a fair and merit-based hiring process.

This article has been updated