9th National Innovation Competition in Engineering (NICE2024): A Showcase of Engineering Innovation in Kurdistan Region & Iraq
On May 12th, 2024, Tishk International University cordially commemorated the successful conclusion of the 9th National Innovation Competition in Engineering (NICE2024). Students, advisors, practitioners, educators, and engineering enthusiasts from nine universities in Kurdistan and Iraq participated in the Targeting Smart Sustainable Innovations event: Tishk International University, Erbil Polytechnic University, Duhok Polytechnic University, University of Duhok, Kirkurk University, Koya University, University of Kurdistan Helwer (UKH), University of Raparin, Knowledge University, Cihan University Erbil, and the Technical Institute of Kurdistan.
The objective of NICE2024 was to provide a forum wherein students could exhibit their inventive undertakings, thereby cultivating their capacity to commercialise concepts. By promoting the pragmatic implementation of theoretical understandings, it enhanced the calibre of scholarly inquiry and instruction in Kurdistan and acquainted pupils with engineering principles and methodologies. The primary objective of the competition was to furnish competitors with problem-solving capabilities and leadership attributes, thereby equipping them for prosperous careers in the industry. Students, faculty, and juries from various universities in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq participated, fostering an environment that encouraged both cooperation and constructive rivalry.
During this notable edition of NICE, an unprecedented transition towards digitalization occurred, fundamentally transforming the entirety of the event management procedure. A cutting-edge management system facilitated the seamless organisation of the event, which included registration, review, evaluation, results, and certification. Designed and developed with great attention to detail by Optimal Source in particular for NICE2024, this groundbreaking system guaranteed optimised workflows, exceptional productivity, and maximum precision. The effective integration of this state-of-the-art technology represented a significant milestone in our progression towards integrating digital innovations into engineering events.
NICE2024 attracted a noteworthy attendance of 5000 individuals, signifying considerable enthusiasm and attention. The competition received a registration of 203 projects, of which 170 were ultimately selected for presentation.
The event served as a demonstration of the collaborative nature of the engineering community. Among the 450 members who had registered were professionals and students representing a wide range of disciplines. The competition was significantly aided by a committed group of 160 supervisors who provided guidance and mentorship to the students who took part. Furthermore, 67 members of the jury contributed significantly to the assessment of the projects by offering insightful feedback and ensuring that the evaluation was both fair and exhaustive.
Participants and jury members were directed to the registration desks located at the main building entrance throughout the event. It was at these desks that they obtained their badges, were briefed on the programme, and were allocated codes to use at their stands. Subsequently, the jury members were extended an invitation to the Coordination Hall, where they could retrieve their evaluation forms and gift packs—a token of recognition and gratitude for their significant input.
The project evaluation procedure commenced when students delivered presentations of their projects to the jury members at 9:30 AM. Evaluation of all participating projects was predicated on factors including ingenuity of project invention, scientific methodology, lucidity in articulating the project concept, technical prowess, and overall exertion dedicated to the endeavour.
The inauguration took place at 10:00 AM, during which the President of Tishk International University, Associate Professor Dr. Sultan Abu-Orabi, delivered a cordial welcome address. The speaker conveyed appreciation to all attendees, including students, the Kurdistan Engineering Syndicate, guests, and jury members. He emphasised the university’s steadfast dedication to advancing the engineering discipline by means of innovative and environmentally responsible initiatives.
In recognition of their benevolent assistance and substantial contribution to the triumph of the occasion, event sponsors were bestowed with a Plaque of Appreciation by Asst. Prof. Dr. Sultan Abu-Orabi subsequent to the opening ceremony. The Dean of Engineering, Dr. Jwan Jalal, delivered an engrossing presentation that established the primary goals, mission, and vision of the competition. The exhibitions and assessments of the projects persisted until the lunch break, at which point the jury members delivered their evaluation outcomes to the personnel of the organising committee, who were tasked with ascertaining the victorious individuals. The aggregate scores were computed utilising a mobile application that was custom-built, thereby guaranteeing a streamlined and precise assessment procedure. A predetermined formula was also utilised to ascertain the project ranking in situations where the scores of multiple projects were tied.
The closing ceremony was conducted at 4:00 PM at the main building entrance, during which the President of TIU, Associate Professor Dr. Sultan Abu-Orabi, delivered the concluding remarks. He conveyed sincere gratitude to every participant for their commitment and exertion in cultivating their projects and making valuable contributions to the triumph of the competition. In addition to prize money and certificates, the top three winners in each of the seven participating categories were declared and presented with gold, silver, and bronze medals by the President of Tishk International University, Prof. Dr. Sultan Abu-Orabi; the Vice President of Tishk International University, Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ozdemir; the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Safwan Mawlood; Mr. Wisam Abdulaziz, Head of NICE 2024; and Mr. Dlman Aziz, Head of Interior Design Department.
NICE2024 served as a forum for collaboration, recognition, and innovation among members of the engineering community. Our deepest appreciation goes out to all attendees, sponsors, personnel, and supporters who contributed to the tremendous success of this occasion. Your dedication and fervour for engineering excellence have undeniably had an impact. Let us persist in shaping a future propelled by cutting-edge engineering solutions.
Please visit our event gallery to revisit the special moments of NICE2024 and stay informed about upcoming initiatives and competitions.
Keywords: Innovation, Sustainability, Engineering Education, Collaboration, Technology, Technology Transfer, Public-private Partnerships (PPPs), Digitalization, Capacity-building, Participation.
