ERBIL, KURDISTAN – February 26, 2025 – Tishk International University’s (TIU) Civil Engineering Department, in collaboration with the ACI TIU Student Chapter, successfully organized the Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) Bowling Ball Competition. The event brought together 150 civil engineering students from 30 teams. These teams represented nine universities across Kurdistan. The competition showcased innovation and the practical application of engineering principles.
The competition challenged students to design and create bowling balls. They used fiber-reinforced concrete for this task. This tested their technical knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. This practical challenge aimed to enhance students’ understanding of concrete technology. It also developed essential soft skills, including teamwork, communication, and project management.
A distinguished panel of five professors served as judges. They meticulously evaluated each entry. Criteria included design innovation, technical execution, material properties, and performance testing. After thorough assessment and deliberation by this expert jury, the winners were announced.
Raparin University claimed the first-place honors. Their innovative design demonstrated exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and surface finish. Tishk International University secured the second-place position. Duhok University and another team from Tishk International University shared the third-place recognition.
“This competition provides students with a unique opportunity,” stated Dr. Agreen Abdullah, Vice Minister of Ministry of Housing and Construction at KRG. “They can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges. The impressive participation from universities across Kurdistan demonstrates the growing interest in advanced concrete technology among our future engineers.”
The event, officially recognized by the American Concrete Institute, was made possible by generous industry sponsors. Iberia and 4Bridges provided crucial support. This highlights the vital partnership between academia and industry. Such collaborations foster educational excellence.
Representatives from participating universities expressed appreciation. These included Salahaddin University, Erbil Polytechnic University, Koya University, Soran University, and Duhok Polytechnic University. They valued the opportunity to engage their students in this practical learning experience.
The competition culminated in an awards ceremony. Distinguished guests from academia and industry presented certificates and plaques. These were given to winning teams and contributors who made the event possible.
This successful event underscores TIU’s commitment. It provides hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for professional challenges. It also strengthens inter-university collaboration across Kurdistan’s higher education institutions.
