Shengal – Nagihan Akarsel was a researcher dedicated to Jineology — the science of women and life. Through her studies, writings, and activism, she became a leading figure for women striving for freedom across all parts of Kurdistan, especially in Rojava and the Kurdistan Region.
She established numerous women’s centers throughout North and East Syria and Kurdistan, inspiring countless women through her presence, her humility, and her ideas. Her assassination by the Turkish occupation forces in the city of Sulaymaniyah on October 4, 2022, was a devastating loss for the women’s movement.
Touching Hearts Through Hope and Thought
Nagihan Akarsel was deeply loved among the Yazidi community, particularly by Yazidi women. Her smile, optimism, and humility left a lasting impression. She explored Yazidi history and culture, and her efforts led to the official founding of the Jineology Academy in Shengal on the second anniversary of her passing — a continuation of her intellectual and social legacy.
In just one year, the academy organized seminars, training sessions, and community meetings, building a vibrant circle of women and men around the study of the science of women and life. It also conducted research to document the history, beliefs, and traditions of the Yazidi people and published two booklets introducing Jineology to the broader public. Yazidi women showed great interest and engagement, and members of the academy continue to expand this work, walking in Akarsel’s footsteps.
“She Laid the Foundation of Jineology in Shengal”
Sarah Botan, from the Jineology Committee in Shengal, said that losing a revolutionary figure like Nagihan Akarsel was painful for all women — especially for Yazidi women.
“During her journey for freedom, Nagihan visited Shengal, where she showed deep interest in Yazidi women and their history. She studied their struggles, shared her thoughts and emotions with them, and laid the foundations of Jineology within the Yazidi community.”
Continuing Her Struggle Through the Academy
Sarah Botan explained that the Shengal Jineology Academy was founded on the second anniversary of Akarsel’s martyrdom:
“We established this academy to follow in Nagihan Akarsel’s footsteps. For two years now, we have continued her mission — educating women and society, introducing the science of women, and expanding the work she began.”
She added that targeting Akarsel was an attempt to strike at the very heart of women’s liberation, but it failed.
“She Left Behind a Legacy of Freedom and Resistance”
According to Sarah Botan, Turkey’s goal in assassinating Akarsel was to reimpose the historical subjugation of women — but the opposite happened.
“Her death only strengthened women’s resolve. From her loss, we drew power and determination. Nagihan left behind a legacy of freedom and resistance. She devoted her life to developing Jineology and deepening women’s understanding of themselves and the world.”
“Through Struggle, We Will Protect What We’ve Gained”
Speaking about the academy’s ongoing work, Botan said:
“The academy has completed a year full of achievements. We continue our research on women’s sciences within the Yazidi community. This institution was created to preserve Nagihan Akarsel’s legacy. Through our work and struggle, we will protect the values and ideas of both Leader Abdullah Öcalan and Martyr Nagihan. Our answer to those who target women is simple: we will never weaken, and we will never surrender to authoritarian policies.”
“We Walk in Their Footsteps”
Botan concluded with a promise of continued struggle:
“Thousands of women like Nagihan have fought for truth and freedom. We are proud to follow their path. We also remember our pioneer, Sakine Cansız, who introduced Jineology and inspired generations. We renew our pledge to Leader Abdullah Öcalan and to all who have fought for freedom — our work will go on until victory and liberation are achieved.”