The First International Workshop of the Kurdistan-Italy Friendship Association was successfully organized. It was jointly hosted by Tishk International University (TIU) and Salahaddin University (SU). The event took place on February 9-10, 2025.

Distinguished guests were present. Dr. Abdulfattah Abdulrazaq, Deputy Minister from the Ministry of Higher Education, attended. Asst. Prof. Dr. Idris Hadi Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TIU, and Prof. Dr. Sultan Abu Orabi, President of TIU, were also there. Additionally, Asst. Prof. Dr. Kamaran Younis, President of Salahaddin University, and Mr. Omed Khoshnaw, the Governor of Erbil, participated. Vice presidents, professors, and researchers also joined. This joint scientific and cultural workshop involved Tishk International University, Salahaddin University, and several Italian universities. These included Gastronomic Science, Eastern Piedmont, Polytechnic di Milano, Bologna, and Pavia.

At the workshop’s opening, the Chairman of TIU’s Board of Trustees delivered a speech. He highlighted the importance of establishing academic and scientific collaborations. These partnerships extended to all universities in the Kurdistan Region. Furthermore, he emphasized collaboration with Italian universities to enhance academic partnerships. Key areas for enhancement included academic staff and student exchange, research collaboration, joint postgraduate studies, and curriculum development.

The workshop had several key objectives. These aimed to strengthen academic and research collaboration between Kurdistan and Italian universities. They also sought to establish long-term partnerships in higher education, technology, and cultural studies. Additionally, the event focused on enhancing scientific exchange in vital fields. These included medicine, engineering, business, and environmental sciences. Promoting cultural dialogue and historical connections between Kurdistan and Italy was another goal. Discussions explored potential joint degree programs, student, and faculty exchange opportunities. Finally, the workshop investigated funding opportunities for research and international development projects.

During the workshop, both Tishk International University (TIU) and Salahaddin University (SU) showcased their achievements. They highlighted progress in advancing international collaboration and academic excellence. TIU’s contributions included partnerships with over 80 international universities. It also focused on enhancing research and faculty development. Similarly, SU presented its initiatives in digital education and scientific research projects. These were conducted in collaboration with European institutions. Both universities demonstrated significant contributions to innovation, technology, and sustainability. This positioned them as leading academic institutions in Kurdistan.

The event successfully brought together experts, policymakers, and scholars. It fostered meaningful collaborations. These will shape the future of education, research, and development in both regions.

The foundation laid by this workshop will serve as a model for future cooperation. It is expected to drive forward educational excellence and scientific progress.

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click here to watch a Rudaw TV Debate about the workshop.

“Explore the workshop’s highlights—click to watch.”