Significant International Academic Engagement

A delegation from the German Research Foundation (DFG) visited Tishk International University on September 10, 2025, marking an important step in strengthening academic and research cooperation between Germany and higher education institutions in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

Distinguished Delegation

The DFG delegation included:

  • Dr. Marcus Wilms, Program Director for International Collaboration with Africa and the Middle East

  • Dr. Annina Lottermann, Program Officer at the DFG

TIU Leadership Reception

The delegation was received by TIU officials including:

  • Prof. Dr. Sultan T. Abu-Orabi, University President

  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ozdemir, Vice-President for Academic Affairs

  • Dr. Fatih Cura, Vice-President for Administrative and Financial Affairs

  • Dr. Muhammed Abdulghani, Dean of Students

  • Mr. Muhammed Anwar, Head of Computer Education Department

  • Mr. Mousa M Amin, Head of Computer Engineering Department

Discussion Focus

The meetings centered on potential cooperation areas:

  • Joint research projects and collaborative initiatives

  • Academic exchange programs for scholars and students

  • Capacity-building activities and institutional development

  • Short-term and long-term academic visits

  • Sustainable partnership frameworks

DFG Regional Objectives

The delegation emphasized their commitment to:

  • Gaining comprehensive understanding of Iraqi higher education

  • Developing programs tailored to regional needs

  • Establishing sustainable academic partnerships

  • Supporting both public and private universities

  • Fostering long-term collaborative relationships

Campus Engagement

The visit included:

  • Comprehensive campus tour of facilities and laboratories

  • Review of ongoing research projects and academic work

  • Assessment of university infrastructure and capabilities

  • Discussion of potential collaborative disciplines

Mutual Commitment

Both parties expressed:

  • Strong interest in developing concrete cooperation frameworks

  • Optimism for long-term academic partnership

  • Commitment to continuing dialogue and collaboration

  • Enthusiasm for creating new opportunities for researchers and students

This visit establishes a foundation for significant academic cooperation between German and Iraqi higher education institutions, with potential for substantial impact on research capacity and educational advancement in the region.

Keywords: German Research Foundation, International Collaboration, Research Partnerships, Academic Exchange, Capacity Building, Higher Education Cooperation, German-Iraqi Relations, Research Development, Institutional Partnership