Female driving instructor trains more than 200 women in safe learning environment

KIRKUK — More than 200 women in Kirkuk have learned to drive under the instruction of Shayma Farouq, known locally as Umm Mohammed, who runs a training office in the city’s Aden neighborhood.

“Over these years, I have trained more than 200 women to drive, and many of them obtained a driver’s license — some in just a few days, others after weeks or even a month, depending on their ability and self-confidence,” Farouq told 964media.

She offers 10-, 20-, and 30-day courses, including intensive and weekend options tailored for working women. Fees vary depending on location, with nearby areas such as Baghdad Road, Wasiti, Aden, and Huzairan costing 200,000 Iraqi dinars ($141), while farther neighborhoods like Shoraw are priced at 250,000 dinars ($177). Training at the office itself costs 180,000 dinars ($127).

Farouq said many women face obstacles beyond the technical skills of driving. “Some women suffer from lack of support at home, which increases their fear and lowers their confidence,” she said. “Drivers on the streets also make things harder — cutting off the road suddenly, stopping without warning, or harassing new female drivers.”

She called on male drivers to be more considerate and supportive, stressing that success requires encouragement both from instructors and families. “Only then can the trainee overcome her fears and drive confidently,” she said.