The work presents Halabja through a comprehensive exploration of its geography, history, culture, language, and heritage.
In a major academic milestone, the University of Halabja held a special ceremony to mark the completion of the Encyclopedia Project of Halabja Governorate. The event was attended by dozens of academics, researchers, historians, teachers, and social figures.
The project was produced by more than 100 scholars, researchers, and university lecturers originally from the governorate. It took over three and a half years to complete, with Sheikh Ali Sheikh Izzeddin serving as the main sponsor throughout the process.
The encyclopedia, which consists of nine volumes, covers all aspects of Halabja. According to Professor Dr Bamo Parwiz Aziz, President of the University of Halabja, the project was carried out in cooperation with the Khala Organisation for Thought and Enlightenment and reflects a shared academic effort by specialists across multiple fields.
He explained that the encyclopedia is intended to serve as a foundational scientific reference for understanding Halabja as a city, culture, and intellectual achievement. It documents the region’s historical, civilisational, scientific, and cultural identity in a structured and scholarly form.
Dr Aziz also noted that Halabja is presented “in the language of science and truth” through its own historical and cultural record, including its geography, language, education, and social life. He added that the work can support future scientific planning and development by providing verified and systematic information.
The encyclopedia brings together historical, geographical, cultural, intellectual, and natural data related to Halabja, with each volume focusing on a specific field.
Historically, the Halabja region—part of Hawraman—has seen repeated settlement over thousands of years. The modern city developed significantly after the arrival of Hama Pasha of the Jaff tribe, when administrative changes shifted it from Khurmal and Gul Anbar to its current form. Today, Halabja is a governorate within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.