The Psychological Counseling and University Guidance Unit at Thi-Qar Technical College organized an educational seminar entitled “Dialogue and Effective Communication Skills in the University Environment.” The seminar was presented by Asst. Lecturer Haneen Hassan Laith and attended by a group of students.

The seminar highlighted the importance of dialogue and communication skills in building a cohesive and cooperative university community. It emphasized that conscious communication based on mutual respect and understanding is a cornerstone for achieving effective learning and positive interaction within the university.

The lecturer explained that the university is not merely a place for academic achievement but also a social and cultural environment where students learn the foundations of constructive discussion and the mature, responsible expression of opinions. She further noted that effective communication contributes to enhancing positive relationships among students, faculty, and administrative staff, helping to resolve conflicts through dialogue rather than reaction, and promoting teamwork, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging to the university community.

The seminar also covered key effective communication skills, including active listening—focused and empathetic listening without interruption, mutual respect—accepting differing opinions without belittling others’ perspectives, clear expression—using polite and unambiguous language, and emotional intelligence—understanding and managing one’s own emotions and those of others during discussions. It also addressed conflict management through civilized dialogue to reach mutually satisfying solutions.

The seminar concluded by reaffirming its goals of promoting a culture of positive communication within the university community, developing students’ constructive dialogue skills, and strengthening values of respect, cooperation, and social responsibility, thereby helping prepare a conscious generation capable of persuasion and effective dialogue both inside and outside the university.