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ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - An art exhibition organized by University of Sulaimani students has raised more than $4,000 to support cancer patients and low-income families in Sulaimani, with proceeds going toward treatment support and small livelihood projects.
The initiative combines support for cancer patients with efforts to help young Kurdish artists gain recognition and give financially struggling families opportunities to generate income.
"What matters most to us is that whatever the price is, they benefit, and we can provide a service to Hiwa Hospital," Diya Rahim, one of the participating students, told Rudaw’s Peshawa Bakhtiyar, mentioning that her painting reflected Kurdish culture and identity. She said the work was purchased by Aso Bamoki, owner of Halabja Group, with the proceeds going to Hiwa Hospital.
Twelve paintings by students from the university's College of Arts were displayed for sale on Saturday, with prices ranging from $300 to $500.
Buyers made payments through a donation box, and a committee will distribute the proceeds to the beneficiaries.
Zhiyar Othman, manager of Arabica Coffee Shops, which supported the exhibition, said the initiative was also intended to give young artists greater exposure.
"These students need supporters, backing for their work," Othman said, adding that the organizers chose University of Sulaimani students to help them "become better known and build themselves."
According to official figures, cancer diagnoses in the Kurdistan Region increased by 62 percent between 2020 and 2025, rising from 6,293 to 10,245 cases. Erbil accounted for 55 percent of recorded cases, followed by Sulaimani with 33 percent and Halabja with 12 percent
The proceeds will be distributed through Save the Children to children with cancer and low-income families, according to Judge Naz Nuri, supervisor of the charity project.
Nuri said the donations would help families establish small income-generating projects, including by providing equipment. "If we buy a sewing machine for a mother, it will become a means for her to be able to raise her children," she said.
Physician Roza Makwan called on the public to support both children with cancer and the young artists behind the exhibition, saying the initiative could help patients while encouraging emerging talent.
Miran Ali, administrative coordinator of Save the Children Kurdistan, said organizers were also considering allocating part of the available funds to help the students continue their project.
The organizers said they plan to expand the exhibition to Erbil and other cities, calling on philanthropists and investors to support similar initiatives.
The Kurdistan Regional Government said in October 2026 that it fully covers cancer diagnosis and treatment costs, estimating the cost at between $180,000 and $200,000 per patient. The government also reported conducting more than 47,000 free mammography screenings in 2025.
