Tishk International University (TIU) and QAF Lab officially formalized a transformative partnership. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 21, 2025. The signing ceremony took place at TIU’s main campus in Erbil. This collaboration promises to bridge academia and industry, fostering innovation and skill-building opportunities.
Distinguished representatives from both institutions attended the ceremony. From TIU, President Prof. Dr. Sultan T. Abu-Orabi and Asst. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ozdemir, Vice-President for Scientific Affairs, were present. QAF Lab was represented by CEO Mohammed Al-Hashimie and Mohammed Al-Samarrai, Business Strategist. Key faculty and staff from TIU also joined: Asst. Prof. Dr. Jwan Jalal, Dean of Engineering Faculty; Dr. Safwan Mawlood, Vice-Dean of the Engineering Faculty; Mr. Mousa M Amin, Head of Computer Engineering; and Dr. Rand Basil, lecturer in Mechatronics Department. From QAF Lab, Ms. Maryam Alfakhrey, Programs Manager, and Mr. Ahmed Mohammed, BD Manager, were also present.
The ceremony began with a welcome speech by Prof. Dr. Sultan T. Abu-Orabi. He highlighted the importance of fostering partnerships that align academic pursuits with practical applications. Following this, Mr. Mohammed Al-Hashimie of QAF Lab provided introductions. A detailed discussion about the MoU’s objectives then took place.
The MoU outlines a wide range of collaborative activities. These aim to enhance innovation, skill development, and societal impact. Specifically, it includes developing joint training and certificate programs for students and professionals. Furthermore, curriculum development will benefit from QAF Lab’s industry expertise. Internships and workplace visits for TIU students at QAF Lab are also planned.
Through this partnership, TIU and QAF Lab seek to create a collaborative environment. Here, academic knowledge and industry expertise will converge. This MoU leverages QAF Lab’s impact-driven initiatives in innovation and entrepreneurship. It also builds on TIU’s commitment to excellence in education. Consequently, the agreement is expected to bring transformative benefits to students, startups, and the broader community. This collaboration will not only enhance practical learning and skill development. It will also contribute significantly to technological and economic growth. Both entities are thus positioned as key drivers of progress in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Additionally, both parties will collaborate on research projects, symposia, and publications. Their goal is to address emerging challenges and explore innovative solutions. The agreement also emphasizes resource-sharing and mutual participation in advisory boards. Joint organization of workshops and competitions is planned. These efforts will increase social awareness and promote entrepreneurship.
This partnership reflects the unwavering commitment of both TIU and QAF Lab. They are dedicated to advancing education and fostering innovation in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. By integrating academic excellence with practical industry experience, this collaboration is poised to create transformative opportunities. These will benefit students, researchers, and startups alike.
