01A. Food security through sustainable agriculture 

                                                                                                                                                     Place: University of Mosul

Food security means having enough safe and nutritious food. Food insecurity can destabilize societies, increase hunger and malnutrition, promote migration and conflict, and lead to severe economic dislocation. Climate change, population growth, water scarcity and changing diets require the development of new strategies that encourage different agricultural technologies to innovate to find solutions that secure healthy and useful food for people, create sustainable livelihoods and promote agricultural and rural development while protecting the environment. In this workshop, we will explore the challenges that stand in the way of ensuring food security in Iraq. In particular, we will discuss the potential of using agricultural technologies to enable people to accelerate the growth cycle of home-grown crops without compromising nutritional value. Based on this, we will discuss and develop ideas for further research and promotion of new approaches. The workshop is aimed at students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of engineering, agriculture and biology. 

Lecturers: Dr. Bashar Mouneer Yahya, Prof. Dr. Rayan Gh. Thaunoun (University of Mosul, Department for Natural Resources and Engineering Science, Remote Sensing Center) Eelaf Taha Al-Dur (University of Mosul, Department of Horticulture and Landscape), Dr. Wisam Yako Aziz (University of Mosul, Department of Agricultural extension and transfer technology), Dr. Lamya Adnan Sarsam (University of Mosul, Department of New and Renewable Energy) & Noora Suhail Ismaeel (University of Mosul, Department of Statistics). 

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

01B. Let’s go underground! Imagine a subway in Mosul 

                                                                                                                                                         Place: University of Mosul

In civil engineering, construction sites are becoming more complex since the used space in urban areas is limited. This makes the planning process more challenging since the planning measurements must include a variety of professions. Therefore, the building information modelling (BIM) is introduced to combine processes of a construction site. One subgroup of BIM is the tunneling information modeling (TIM) which combines the processes concerning tunneling projects. In our workshop there will be an introduction to different projects in Europe as case studies (Austria, Norway, Germany) focusing especially on a newly built underground train station in the German city of Stuttgart (Project: Stuttgart 21). Here the aspects of parameter determination and soil stratification are touched. To ensure a proper design of tunneling projects, numerical methods are used; thus, some aspects of the finite element method and its use are introduced. Since the consideration of environmentally friendly design is growing, these projects in Europe are discussed also in terms of their sustainability. After the input lecture, we will start to create a concept of an underground system in Mosul. We will discuss technical aspects which must be considered before starting the design process. In addition, the discussion also includes the sustainability aspect. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and relevant for students for engineering, civil engineering, architecture, geology, spatial planning and related disciplines. 

Lecturers: Haris Felic (Institute of Soil Mechanics, Foundation Engineering, and Computational Geotechnics, University of Technology Graz, Austria) & Dr. Abdulrahim Ibrahim, Dr. Muatz al Obadi (University of Mosul, Department of civil engineering). 

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

01C. Affordable housing for all

                                                                                                                              Place: University of Mosul

Housing is crucial to our health and well-being and to our ability to participate fully in society. This is why it is so important that all people have access to housing that they can afford and that meets their needs. With SDG 11, the United Nations indicates that promoting inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated and sustainable settlement planning is an important goal to make cities and settlements more inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. In this workshop, we will discuss key considerations for facilitating sustainable, cost-effective and healthy building processes, such as choosing a suitable building site, using green building materials, using green facades and locally available insulation materials for buildings. Based on this, we will develop our own vision. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant to students of architecture, engineering, environmental sciences, natural science, and spatial planning. 

Lecturers. Dr. Raed Salim alnumman (University of Mosul, Department of Architecture Engineering) & Dr. Basman Mahmood Hasan Alhafidh (University of Mosul, Department of Computer Engineering) & Duaa Samad

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.  

01D. Sustainable housing in Mosul

                                                                                                                                               Place: University of Mosul

Housing is crucial to our health and well-being and to our ability to participate fully in society. This is why it is so important that all people have access to housing that they can afford and that meets their needs. With SDG 11, the United Nations indicates that promoting inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated and sustainable settlement planning is an important goal to make cities and settlements more inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. In this workshop, we will discuss key considerations for facilitating sustainable, cost-effective and healthy building processes, such as choosing a suitable building site, using green building materials, using green facades and locally available insulation materials for buildings. Based on this, we will develop our own vision. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant to students of architecture, engineering, environmental sciences, natural science, and spatial planning. 

Lecturers: Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Mohammed (University of Mosul, Department of Civil Engineering), Dr. Omar Khairialdeen Mohialdeen (University of Mosul, Department of Environmental Science and Technology) & Mr. Yazen (University of Mosul, Department of Computer Engineering).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.  

01E. Transportation for all

                                                                                                                                            Place: University of Mosul

Transport affects people’s quality of life in many ways. Inadequate infrastructure can be a significant financial and time burden, especially for disadvantaged groups. The provision of transport services is likely to contribute to quality of life and there is evidence that it influences life satisfaction. Providing transport for those who have no other alternatives may have intangible qualitative benefits, such as reducing social isolation and improving quality of life. On the other hand, increased use of public transport can help reduce air pollution and free up space in cities. In this workshop we will explore how transport systems can contribute to sustainable urban development. We will look at sustainable transport solutions around the world and analyse the challenges of transport in Mosul. Based on this, we will discuss and develop ideas for an urban transport system that can improve the quality of life of the people in Mosul in many ways. The workshop is aimed at students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of engineering, environmental science, economy and management. 

Lecturers: Dr. Ibrahim Adil Ibrahim Al-Hafidh (University of Mosul, Department of Mining Engineering), Farah Khazaal Saeed (University of Mosul, Department of Environmental Technologies) & Dr. Obey M. Al-Wattar (Spatial planning, University of Duhok) , Mr. Mohammed J. Hamdon.(University of Mosul,  Department of Business administration)

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

02A. Choose your own career 

Place: University of Mosul

Autonomy, understood as the ability to decide for oneself how to shape one’s life, plays a fundamental role in shaping well-being. Feeling responsible for decisions promotes engagement, often leads to innovation and definitely increases satisfaction and thus productivity at work. 

In this workshop, we will explore the opportunities and barriers for young people in Iraq to make their own work-related choices for the future. In particular, we will develop a conceptual framework to identify systemic and personal factors that influence career opportunities for young people in Iraq. Based on this, we will develop strategies to better support young Iraqis in making career choices that match their interests, skills and vision for the future. The workshop is aimed at students from all disciplines especially social, economic sciences, computer sciences, agriculture, education, psychology and management.

Lecturers: Dr. Adel Mohammed Abdullha, Abd-Alaziz Tyb Fathee (University of Mosul, Business Administration), Dr. Nidhal Ali Suliman (Northern Technical University, Administration) & Marwa Mohamed Ahmed (FU Berlin, Arabic Studies, Germany).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

02B. Learn, Work, Live!

Place: University of Mosul

Without basic skills and sufficient vocational training, we are all limited in our ability to live a decent life and build a successful career. In our workshop, we will explore the role of basic life skills and job-related training opportunities, with a focus on improving private sector employment. Here we will learn how to improve our overall life skills and how training can lead to employment opportunities and career advancement. Through these reflections on the skills required to live and work in the Mosul region, we will explore how we can contribute to the overall personal and professional development of citizens and workers. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Mahmoud Fayez Kadawi (Nineveh Education Directorate), Dr. Layth Hamdi Abdullah Al-Talib (University of Mosul, College of Basic Education Department of General Science), Dr. Amal Fattah Zaidan Alabaiji (University of Mosul, Department of Biology).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

02C. Basic life and work skills

Place: University of Mosul

Without basic skills and sufficient vocational training, we are all limited in our ability to live a decent life and build a successful career. In our workshop, we will explore the role of basic life skills and job-related training opportunities, with a focus on improving private sector employment. Here we will learn how to improve our overall life skills and how training can lead to employment opportunities and career advancement. Through these reflections on the skills required to live and work in the Mosul region, we will explore how we can contribute to the overall personal and professional development of citizens and workers. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Dr. Maarib Mohammed Ahmaad Al Moula (Department of Biology) & Dr. Khansaa Abdulelah Ahmed (University of Mosul, Department of Digital Image processing, Remote sensing Center).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

02D. Entrepreneurship to improve quality of life?

Place: University of Mosul

Entrepreneurship as the exploitation of business opportunities and as a creative and formative process which is defined crucial for economic development. Especially in small, low-cost start-up projects, there can be great potential for improving the material living conditions of young people. In our workshop, we will discuss basic concepts of entrepreneurship and how they can support young people in taking the first steps towards starting their own business. We will explore which skills are relevant for starting your own projects (e.g. IT skills for online marketing) and how the university can support entrepreneurship. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Dr. Shaymaa Khazaal Younis Alazzawi, Sahbaa Ali Ahmed (University of Mosul, Department of Chemistry), Mohammed A. Mohammed Hamokhalil (University of Mosul, Management Information Systems), Halla Sami Khudier (University of Mosul, Department of Financial and Banking Sciences).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

02E. Business for life quality

Place: University of Mosul

Entrepreneurship as the exploitation of business opportunities and as a creative and formative process which is defined crucial for economic development. Especially in small, low-cost start-up projects, there can be great potential for improving the material living conditions of young people. In our workshop, we will discuss basic concepts of entrepreneurship and how they can support young people in taking the first steps towards starting their own business. We will explore which skills are relevant for starting your own projects (e.g. IT skills for online marketing) and how the university can support entrepreneurship. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Dr. Omar Ali Ismael, Amal Sarhan Suliman, Rayan Mohammed Thyab (University of Mosul, Department of Industrial Management), Saif Khalid Zakaria & Mohamed Ahmed Mahmood (Marketing Management Department). 

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

02F. Tourism and quality of life

Place: University of Mosul

Tourism could be a significant economic factor and create jobs in Mosul and the region. Because of its great historical and cultural heritage, Mosul as the “City of Two Springs” could soon become an interesting destination for travelers from the region and around the world. In our workshop we will discuss the tourism potential of Mosul and the Nineveh region, especially in terms of economic benefits and career opportunities for young people. We will highlight the importance of sustainable use of tourist sites, such as Bashtabiya castle or the old city, in order to be interesting for future generations of tourists coming to Mosul. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Dr. Manal Abdulgabar Alsammak (University of Mosul, Department of Hotel Studies), Dr. Alaa Abdullah Hussein (University of Mosul, Department of Tourism Studies) & Bilal Tawfiq Younis (University of Mosul, Department of Industrial Management).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

02G. Let’s get digital

Place: University of Mosul

Modern humans lives in the age of knowledge and digitalisation, which is supposed to improve the quality of life. Nevertheless, digital technologies are only tools in the development and transformation of socio-economic processes, and their use in itself does not guarantee only positive effects, which strongly depend on the goals, conditions, institutions, etc. In our workshop we will discuss different perspectives on digitalisation processes in different areas of our social and economic life (e.g. use of technology in urban planning, recent developments of parallel processing algorithms/supercomputers) and explore the potential and limitations in increasing productivity and our overall quality of life. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Assist.-Prof. Dr. Mohammed W. Al-Neama (University of Mosul, Department of Computing Mathematics), Assist.-Prof. Dr. Karam Hatim Thanoon (University of Mosul, Department of Cyber Security), Dr. Abeer Adel Mohammed Al-Shiha (University of Mosul, Department of Artificial Intelligence), Assist.-Prof. Dr. Mahmood Dhiya Jasim, Ammar Saad, Omar Abdulazeez (University of Mosul, Department of Mathematics).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

02H. Corporate social responsibility

Place: University of Mosul

During the workshop, the objectives of social responsibility will be presented, including economic, legal and environmental responsibility. Numerous examples of incorporating CSR strategies into corporate strategies will be discussed, from examples of involvement in the life of local communities to attempts to achieve environmental efficiency or corporate involvement in the protection of culture. Together with the students, we will examine the possibilities and conditions for incorporating CSR into corporate practice in Iraq and develop proposed solutions/ideas that could be implemented in Iraqi companies. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturer: Assist.-Prof. Dr. Honorata Howaniec, PhD (University of Bielsko-Biala, Poland) Ruaa Mudhafar & Hamsa Burhen  (University of Mosul, Environmental Sciences and Technology Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

03A. Inclusive education for all 

Place: University of Mosul

Education is a human right and a key factor in ensuring quality of life. Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all is a global goal and an essential prerequisite for peace and sustainable societies. In this workshop we will learn about and discuss the concept and approaches to inclusive education. We will look at what countries around the world are doing to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized groups can fully enjoy their right to education. Based on this, we will discuss and develop ideas on how to make education in Iraq more inclusive. The workshop is aimed at students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of education.

Lecturers: Ricarda Derler (University of Graz, Faculty of Environmental, Regional and Educational Sciences, Institute of Education Research and Teacher Education, Inclusive Education, Austria), Marwah Riyadh Hashim Al-Nuaimi (University of Mosul, College of Islamic Sciences, Sharia’a Department), Rafal Mahmood Jasim & Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Hamed (University of Mosul, Department of Marketing Management).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

03B. Towards educational justice

Place: University of Mosul

The capability approach, developed by the Indian economist and Nobel laureate Amartya Sen and the American philosopher Martha Craven Nussbaum, is an internationally discussed, justice-theoretical approach that focuses on the question of a good life or a successful practical way of life. In our workshop we will discuss issues of educational justice through the lens of the capabilities approach and other contrasting theories. On this basis we will reflect and develop ideas on how educational justice can be achieved in Iraq. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and especially relevant for students of education, humanities, sociology, psychology and related disciplines.

Lecturers: Saranda Shabanhaxhaj (University of Graz, Institute of Education Research and Teacher Education, Austria), Assist. Prof. Wassan A. Rashee (University of Mosul, English Department) & Ahlam Muhsin Maree  (University of Mosul, English Translation Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

03C. Countering illiteracy 

Place: University of Mosul

Literacy in any country is the key to its growth and progress. Therefore literacy is on the top of the agenda of many developmental and educational organizations such as UNESCO, the European Union’s Global Partnership for Education Programme or Save the Children. On an individual level literacy is crucial for learning and education, opportunities on the labor market and social and political participation. In our workshop we will explore the literacy situation in Iraq and globally. In the case of Iraq we will discuss the reasons for the increase of illiteracy. We will also think about possible approaches to improve this situation, like establishing literacy centers and using digital technology in order to support children and adults in learning how to read and write. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and especially relevant for students of education, social sciences, psychology and computer sciences. 

Lecturers: Dr. Yaseen Hikmat Ismael (University of Mosul, Department of Computer Sciences), Fatima Awois Muslih (Al-Razi Literacy Center, Department of Computer Sciences) & Alaa Abduljbar Aldubony (Department of Educational and Psychological Sciences).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

03D. Building healthy learning environments

Place: University of Mosul

The importance of well-being in educational institutions is often underestimated. For example there is a direct link between well-being and academic achievement. In our workshop we want to explore different aspects that may affect students’ well-being in terms of pedagogy but also the architectural design of learning environments. For example the teaching style and practices as well as the classroom-management and teacher-student relationship may have a great effect on the well-being of students. On the other hand the architectural design of the learning environments may have a great impact on students well-being, psychological health and academic achievement. In our workshop we want to explore these different aspects from different academic perspectives and focus also on the interplay of social/pedagogical and architectural/design related aspects as contributions to students’ well-being. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and especially relevant to students of education, psychology, sociology, civil engineering, architecture and spatial planning. 

Lecturers: Dr. Inas Younis Mustafa Al-Azow (University of Mosul, Department of Mathematics) & Dr. Raed Adrees Younis (University of Mosul, Department of Educational and Psychological Sciences).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

03E. Together for better school quality

Place: University of Mosul

In our workshop “What is a “good school”? you are presented with different dimensions and criteria of school quality as well as methodical planning aids for integration using the example of the reference framework for school quality of North Rhine-Westphalia (Western Germany). This framework will guide our discussion, which of these aspects are of particular importance for schools in Iraq. The reference framework shows guiding principles and development goals for school and teaching development. Based on the criteria and further explanations, you will receive impulses and tips on how to contribute to the design and development of a school. In the course of the workshop, an accompanying method handout will also be presented, including tips and methodical planning aids for integrating a reference framework for school quality into school development processes. We would like to try out different methods with the students. As a contribution to the concluding student conference, the students’ different ideas of a “good school“ are developed and visualized as a basis for discussion. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant to students of education, humanities, sociology, psychology and related disciplines.

Lecturers: Alexander Brämer, Britta Al-Madani (Institute for Quality Development in Education – QUALIS, Germany), Ahmed Jameel Sulaiman Al Dulaimi (University of Mosul, English Department) & Dr. Yasir A Aljawadi (University of Mosul, Physics Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

04A. Enhance the quality of healthcare providers

Place: University of Mosul

Health has a significant impact on our quality of life. Accessible, quality health care should be a top priority for any society. In this workshop, we will learn about and discuss concepts and approaches to health services. We will look at what countries and cities around the world are doing to ensure that people of all ages have access to effective health care and prevention programs. From this foundation, we will develop a comprehensive understanding of the dimensions of health care quality. Using this framework, we will look at civilian health care providers and aid organizations in Iraq, particularly in the city of Mosul. This approach will help us discuss and develop ideas on how to improve healthcare in Iraq. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of medicine, management and social services. 

Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Munther Khuder Yaqoob, Dr. Hind Khudhur Ahmed & Shaymaa Nadhim Hamdoon (University of Mosul, Department of Marketing Management), ِDr. Alaa Abdulmawjood Alani (University of Mosul, Administration and Economics), Israa Tareq Almalah, Shaimaa Mohamad Saleh (University of Mosul, Department of Business Management) & Dr. Sura Talal Younus (University of Mosul, Department of Public Health).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

04B. Stop bullying

Place: University of Mosul

Bullying is a serious threat to young people. Studies have shown that bullying poses a significant threat to short- and long-term health, as well as social and psychological well-being. Victims of bullying are at increased risk for anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, stress, fear, low self-esteem, and poor academic performance. In this workshop, we will reflect on different forms of bullying based on theoretical models. We will look at different approaches to bullying prevention and victim support. On this basis, we want to develop ideas together on how young people in Iraq can be better educated and protected against bullying. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of psychology, education, social sciences and nursing. 

Lecturers: Hana Abdulkader Al-Saeed, Rayyan Ibrahim Khalil (University of Mosul, Department of Pediatric Nursing), Mohammed Kadhem Aljizani (Mustansiriya University, Department of Psychological Counseling and Educational Guidance) & Eman Al-Khafaf (University of Mosul, Department of Nursing, Psychologist).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

04C. Take care of yourself

Place: University of Mosul

Self-care empowers people to take their health and wellbeing into their own hands, giving them the incentive to improve their quality of life. The World Health Organization defines self-care as: “the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability. Practicing self care may include participating in social or cultural activities, eating healthy food, playing sports as well as changing potentially harmful habits (e.g. tobacco consumption, extensive use of computers and mobile devices). In our workshop we will discuss these and further aspects of self-care and develop ways to promote self-care to ourselves and others. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of natural science (physics, biology, chemistry), education, basic education, physical education, sports sciences.

Lecturers: Mahmoud Ahmed Mohammed Fakhri (University of Mosul, Department of Medical Physics), Rafad Rabee Saadun Altaee (University of Mosul, Department of Chemistry) & Muayad Abdulrazzaq Hassoo (University of Mosul, College of Physical Education and Sport Science).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

04D. Small stitch – big impact? Vaccinations for quality of life

Place: University of Mosul

The Covid-19 pandemic has shown on a global scale, how infectious diseases can be a deadly threat to humankind and hamper life quality throughout societies. However COVID-19 of course is not the only widespread disease with major impact on human health on a major scale. There are also many others including smallpox, poliomyelitis or tuberculosis, which if not prevented or treated properly may cause the death of many. In our workshop we will focus on vaccinations as a means of preventing harmful infectious diseases. You will learn in detail about vaccinations regarding the two leading causes of death from infectious diseases – tuberculosis and COVID-19 and discuss the benefits and limitations of vaccination campaigns in treating these infections. The workshop will be opened to students of all disciplines particularly medicine and biology. 

Lecturers: Dr. Kawkab Idrees Mahmood & Dr. Ali Adel Daood (University of Mosul, Department of Medical Biology – Anatomy). 

Note: This workshop is held in ُEnglish with translation provided.

04E. Smart preventive healthcare: Soft sensors and artificial intelligence 

Place: University of Mosul

This workshop will explore the application of soft sensors and artificial intelligence for smart preventive healthcare. Participants will learn about the potential of these technologies for improving healthcare outcomes, including reducing hospitalization rates and improving the quality and accuracy of patient care. The workshop will provide an overview of the state of the art in soft sensors and AI, including the principles of data collection, signal processing, and predictive analytics. Participants will explore how soft sensors and AI can be used to design, build, and deploy systems for smart preventive healthcare. The workshop will also discuss challenges and ethical considerations associated with the use of soft sensors and AI in healthcare. Finally, there will be a discussion on the potential of this technology to empower patients and healthcare providers in the pursuit of better and more cost-effective care.

Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Franziska Lissel (Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research, Germany) & Prof. Dr. Dominik Michels (Stanford University, USA & Max Planck Institute for Informatics, Germany), Abdulsatar Abduljabar Sultan (Catholic University in Erbil, Department of Business Administration), Raghda Tareq Abdulateef Alomary (University of Mosul, Department of Physiology) & Abdullah Idrees Mustafa Alabdullah (Universit of Mosul, Department of Physics) & Asst. Prof. Dr. Alaa Yaseen Taha Taqa (University of Mosul, Computer science Department) & Dr. Yahya Qasim Ibrahim Al-Fadhili (University of Mosul, Computer science Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

05A. Learning from the past – Environmental and ethnic processes in ancient Iraq and Syria

Place: University of Mosul

In our workshop we will reflect on the question of what good life meant in the past for the many communities living together in Iraqi and Syrian cities. The focus will be on the first millennium CE. On the basis of historical records, inscriptions and archaeological findings, we will discuss how they faced two core challenges: first, the limitations, disruptions, but also potentials resulting from the environmental situation (e.g., floods, salinization, aridity, but also enormous agricultural productivity); and second, the typical ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of its population (e.g. tensions, discrimination, division, but also cultural richness, tolerance of otherness, and multilingualism). We will approach these questions by looking at several exemplary cases (al-Hira, Baghdad, Palmyra and Jerusalem). On the basis of these discussions we will develop ideas to be presented and discussed on the final conference day. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and especially relevant for students of history, archeology, anthropology, geography, heritage conservation, environmental history and related disciplines.

Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Isabel Toral (FU Berlin, Department of Arabic Studies, Germany), Dr. Konstantin Klein (University of Amsterdam, Department of History, Archeology and Region Studies, Netherlands) & Furat Khalaf Kuti (University of Duhok, Spatial Planning, Iraq), Assist. Prof. Dr. Yasir Jabir Khalil, Assist. Prof. Othman Ghanim Mohammed, Assist. Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Abdullah Jameel (University of Mosul, Archeology Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

05B. Together for a better campus

Quality of Life is a concept related to well-being, flourishing and life satisfaction. Since only individuals can decide for themselves in a subjective way whether their lives are good, it is not a concept that can be easily and objectively captured. It can include health, environment, personal development and/or purposeful activity. Every year, new motivated students come to universities around the world to learn for life. The pursuit of knowledge and excellent grades is an important part of student life. Interacting with peers, making friends, and getting to know yourself are aspects of student life that are often overlooked. University of Mosul may face greater challenges in this regard due to its recent past. We want to give students from different disciplines the opportunity to find out what quality of life at the university means to them. We want to talk about challenges such as stress, daily routines, mental health, infrastructure, or unmet expectations, and want to find coping mechanisms and/or solutions to some of the problems you might face. We believe this offers a great opportunity to reimagine student life on campus itself. Our workshop will encourage you to get creative and to come up with your own ideas! Through interdisciplinary group work, together as a group you will be able to present a problem and develop a (theoretical) solution to improve the quality of life at University of Mosul. Everybody is welcome! There is no prior knowledge needed.

Lecturers: Maryam Al Fakhry, Mustafa Alchalabi (SDG-Ambassadors Mosul, Iraq) & Franziska Hirschberger, Carolin Hennig (SDG-Ambassadors Graz, Austria).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

05C. Revitalize Al-Najafi Street (Special Workshop: No application possible through the conference website)

Place: University of Mosul

The reconstruction and rehabilitation of cultural sites destroyed by the terrorist group ISIS is an important humanitarian and historical task. Al-Najafi Street is an essential part of Mosul’s cultural heritage. The street has served as a place of intellectual exchange for generations. Its reconstruction represents the revival of Mosul’s cultural identity and its intellectual heritage. Within the framework of this workshop, Iraqi and German students are jointly developing creative visions for the revitalization of Al-Najafi Street. Particularly is the cooperation with Mosul Book Quay initiative, which will award the best ideas in a competition. The workshop will be specially advertised. Registration is possible via separate announcement. 

Lecturers: Raed Salim Alnumman, Rawia Marwan Abdu Aziz (University of Mosul, Department of Architecture Engineering) & David Keuer (M.A. Architect approved by Chamber of Architecture Northrine-Westphalia, Head of Design, Groene Architecture, Germany).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided. 

06A. Ensuring children’s rights after war 

Place: University of Mosul

Armed forces and armed groups have an obligation under international humanitarian law to take measures to protect civilians, including children, who are particularly vulnerable in times of war. Killing and maiming, abduction, rape or other serious sexual violence, recruitment or deployment in armed forces and armed groups, attacks on schools or hospitals, and denial of access to humanitarian assistance still too often constitute serious violations against children. Post-war societies are challenged to develop programs to help children cope with the consequences of war. In this workshop we will look at international conventions on children’s rights and programs of protection and aftercare of war. We will review approaches taken in Iraq. Based on this, we will discuss and develop ideas for further action. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturer: Saja Fattah Zaidan, Afraa Riyadh (University of Mosul, Department of Public Policy), Shahlaa Kamal Abduljawad (University of Mosul, Department of International Relation) & Anmmar Mahmoud Ahmed (Northern Technical University, Power Mechanics Department).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

07A. Speak up. Protecting the right to freedom of expression

Place: University of Mosul

Freedom of expression is an important human right that is essential for a democratic society. It is also fundamental for science and research. In this workshop, we will discuss the importance of scientific freedom. We will examine the legal framework, conditions and forms of implementation in Iraqi universities. We will discuss and develop ideas on how to strengthen freedom of expression in Iraq. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines.

Lecturers: Dr. Abdulaziz Ramdhan Ali Alkhtabi (University of Mosul, Department of Human Rights), Dr. Ahmed Tariq Yassin (University of Mosul, Department of International Relations), Dr. Mahmood Azzo Hamdow (University of Mosul, Department of Public Policy).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

07B. Stand up for human rights 

Place: University of Mosul

Implementing human rights for all, is the basis for sustainable peace and justice in any society. However, human rights cannot be taken for granted but often have to be fought for and negotiated in strong political debates. In our workshop we will focus on the relevance of negotiation skills in human rights education. In doing so we will first discuss basic concepts of human rights education and also focus on the importance of promoting human rights as well as the role and responsibility of human rights educators. In the next step we will emphasize negotiation skills as a prerequisite and a goal of human rights education. Also we want to discuss with you, what can be done to improve negotiation skills in human rights education and other educational settings in Mosul and the region.The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students from faculty of political science and faculty of law. 

Lecturers: Ammar Ahmed Rashid, Dr. Mohamed Myaser Fathi (University of Mosul, Department of International Relation), Khairullah Sabhan Abdullah (University of Mosul, College of Political Science).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

08A. Treatment of environmentally hazardous chemicals

Place: University of Mosul

Leading a healthy life begins with protecting the natural and living environment. By doing so we are able to save lives, solve environmental problems and improve the conditions of our existence. In our workshop we will learn about concepts for environmental protection and about it’s negative effects on our surrounding ecosystem. We will focus on the treatment of chemical hazards to our ecosystem, our food and human health. Based on this, we will develop ideas on how we can take action for a healthier, better environment in Mosul and the region. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology), environmental sciences, petroleum engineering, engineering and related disciplines.

Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Zena Abdul Monim Al-Jawadi (University of Mosul, Department of Chemistry), Dr. Eman Abdulmonim AL-Jawadi (University of Mosul, Department of Environmental Technologies), Mohammed Ihsan Majeed (Northern Technical University, Pharmacy department) & Ziadoon Mohanad Khaleel (University of Mosul, Petroleum Reservoir Engineering Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

08B. Monitoring air pollution 

Place: University of Mosul

Air Pollution is a significant risk factor for human health and therefore has a severe impact on our quality of life. In our workshop we will at first learn about different kinds of pollution, the causes and impacts on our natural environment and consequently also on our physical and mental well-being. In the next step we will focus on one technology-based solution for measuring and preventing the spread of air pollution based on the “Internet of Things”. Through interconnected sensors and microcontrollers it will be possible to monitor air pollution continuously and in real-time. The proposed system can be used anywhere in homes, car parks, gardens, factories, and oil refineries. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of environmental technology, computer engineering and all sciences.

Lecturers: Raghad Hazim Saeed Al Shekh, Liqaa Idrees Saeed Majdal (University of Mosul, Department of Mining Engineering), Rasha Khalid Sabri Mhemid, Dr. Ali Basheer Aziz (University of Mosul, Department of Environmental Technology), Dr. Yahya Abdulkareem Salman (University of Mosul, Department of Physics) & Assist. Prof. Dr. Alaa Mohamed Tayed Al-Layla (University of Mosul, Department of Chemistry). 

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

08C. Clean energy for a better quality of life

Place: University of Mosul

There are a variety of environmental problems directly related to energy production and consumption including air pollution, climate change, water pollution, thermal pollution, and solid waste disposal. All of these hazards have a severe impact on our health and living conditions and therefore on our overall quality of life. We can avoid or reduce the impact of these problems through reducing the electricity usage but also through the production of clean energy. In our workshop we will discuss a variety of aspects related to the production of clean renewable energy as well as other ways to reduce the environmental impact of our energy use. We will also develop our own ideas and concepts on how we can provide clean and renewable energy for Mosul and the region. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of physics, engineering, environmental science and geography.

Lecturers: Dr. Muhsin Waleed Mohammed, Lubna Haqi Ismael (University of Mosul, Department of Physics) & Oday Nazar Alkhalili  (University of Mosul, Computer Center).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic.

08D. No more littering in Mosul

Place: University of Mosul

The accumulation of solid waste in urban areas is one of the most important problems facing human life in Nineveh and all over Iraq, which affects the provision of a decent quality of life for the Iraqi citizens. Solid-waste management, which means collecting, treating, and disposing of solid material that is discarded because it has served its purpose or is no longer useful, can be one of the solutions. In our workshop you will learn about the approaches regarding the handling of solid waste – also considering questions of waste disposal from the first moment of production. We will introduce the solid waste management pyramid as one model for solid waste management and discuss the benefits and limitations of these approaches in solid waste management in the Mosul region. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of economics, business administration, environmental science, natural sciences and social  sciences.  

Lecturers: Ali Thanoon Younis, Rahma Abdullah Mahmood (University of Mosul, Department of Business Administration), Ahmed Khaled Abdel Rahman (University of Mosul, Department of Organization Management and Organizational Behavior) & Dr. Mohannad Muneer Al-Salman (University of Mosul, Department of Economics).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

08E. Drought in Nineveh – Working for water security

Place: University of Mosul

The Nineveh region suffers from a shortage of water supply as a consequence of climate change and neighborhood transporting water policy. The impact of the drought in Nineveh is manyfold, including shortages in water supplies for households, agriculture and industries and therefore hampering life quality in many regards. Therefore it’s necessary to understand the drought impact and how to set a solution to mitigate and overcome the increasing drought status. Thus, water harvesting is a promising technique to decrease the drought expansion in the Nineveh region. In our workshop, we will discuss different approaches and technologies in dealing with the drought problem and develop our own concepts on how to tackle this issue. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of engineering, geology, environmental science and geography.

Lecturers: Asst. Prof. Dr. Alaa N. Hamdon, Mays Ibrahim Alsaidi (University of Mosul, Remote Sensing Center), Asst. Prof. Dr. Mohammed F. Omer (University of Mosul, Natural Resources and Engineering Sciences Department), Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdalrahman Qubaa (University of Mosul, Image Processing Department) & Prof. Sabah Hussein Ali (University of Mosul, Continuing Education Unit).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

08F. Tackling climate change with artificial intelligence

Place: University of Mosul

The impact of climate change is considered one of the biggest challenges humanity is facing today. Climatic and environmental events such as high temperatures, floods, environmental pollution, and global warming constitute great pressure and danger to human life and the quality of human life. In order to face this great challenge there are a variety of measures to be taken including a proper analysis and assessment of the current situation and development over time. In our workshop we will shed light on the use of artificial intelligence techniques in studying and analyzing climate data in order to take appropriate decisions to reduce these climatic phenomena that have become a threat to our lives and to improve and use methods that reduce these environmental risks. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of Computer Sciences, Statistics, Informatics, Environmental Sciences Engineering and English. 

Lecturers: Omar Qusay Alshebly (University of Mosul, Statistics and Informatics Department), Ahmad Jasim Alazzawi (University of Mosul, English Department) & Dr. Omar Abdulwahhab Khalaf (Tishk International University-Erbil, Architecture Department).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

09A. Education and research for quality of life

Place: University of Mosul

Students, lecturers and researchers can play a vital role in improving the quality of life in their region. In our workshop we would like to focus on the role of education and research in terms of a variety of aspects related to the improvement of life quality. In our workshop students will learn about ways in which education can contribute to economic development, social cohesion and individual progress. Through research-based learning you as university students will explore ways to evaluate environmental, social and economic threats to life quality in Mosul and the region. You will use a quality improvement method (Ishikawa scheme) as one example of how different indicators of life quality can be evaluated and improved. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and is particularly relevant for students of the sciences and medicine.

Lecturers: Noor Sabah Essa, Zaid Khaleel Ibrahim & Sarah Kanaan Hamzah (University of Mosul, Department of Industrial Management).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic with translation provided. 

09B. Towards healthy spaces 

Place: University of Mosul

The space around us, may have a great impact on our health and our overall well-being. In the design of spaces (e.g. administrative, educational, recreational and others) we need to consider a balance of social (“human”) and spatial (“physical”) aspects. A comfortable, climatically and psychologically appropriate spatial environment that ensures social interaction with others is known as a healthy space. In contrast, to a sick space in which many live, work or learn today. In our workshop, we ask: How do we transform these sick spaces into healthy ones? We would like to explore and discuss this phenomenon with students of all disciplines and especially students of architecture, engineering, medicine, psychology and related subjects.  

Lecturers: Mayssa Moffeq Alobaidi, Bisam Ehessan AL-Hafiz, Reem Ali Talib Alothman & Assist. Prof. Nasma Maan M. Thabit (University of Mosul , Department of Architecture Engineering).

Note: This workshop is held in Arabic. 

09C. (CANCELLED!!!) Fundamental science for quality of life (CANCELLED!!!!)

Place: University of Mosul

Fundamental scientists in disciplines such as physics, chemistry or medicine work at the frontier of knowledge. They aim to extend the current stock of knowledge, and lay foundations for further scientific discoveries. This contrasts with applied science where the focus is set on practical applications or product development and yields a direct benefit for the funder, which is often the public. Every year, billions of US-Dollars are invested by governments and industry companies around the globe into science. However, funding for fundamental research keeps decreasing, so that it becomes more and more difficult to justify research in fundamental science as results of this research do not offer an immediate and measurable short-term gain. The link of applied sciences to improving quality of life may at first sight be more obvious than that of fundamental science, since the outcome of fundamental science engagement is often unknown. In this four-day workshop, we will discuss the image problem of fundamental science these days, where performance and efficiency are the dominant and relevant measures. We will evaluate the benefit of fundamental science for global society in general and with practical examples. We will ask the question whether fundamental research can contribute or is even a key component to improving life quality in societies. We invite you to learn and discuss the issues described above and develop ideas together with us, which will be presented and discussed on the final conference day. The workshop is open to students of all disciplines and especially relevant for students of natural sciences, physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, medicine, environmental sciences and related subjects.

Lecturers: Dr. Julian Holstein (TU Dortmund, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Germany), Amira Rifae Hannwawi & Hadeel Mohammad Al-Ajely (University of Mosul, Department of Mining).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.

09D. Students for a more livable campus 

Place: University of Mosul

Quality of Life is a concept related to well-being, flourishing and life satisfaction. Since only individuals can decide for themselves in a subjective way whether their lives are good, it is not a concept that can be easily and objectively captured. It can include health, environment, personal development and/or purposeful activity.

Every year, new motivated students come to universities around the world to learn for life. The pursuit of knowledge and excellent grades is an important part of student life. Interacting with peers, making friends, and getting to know yourself are aspects of student life that are often overlooked. University of Mosul may face greater challenges in this regard due to its recent past. We want to give students from different disciplines the opportunity to find out what quality of life at the university means to them. We want to talk about challenges such as stress, daily routines, mental health, infrastructure, or unmet expectations, and want to find coping mechanisms and/or solutions to some of the problems you might face. We believe this offers a great opportunity to reimagine student life on campus itself. Our workshop will encourage you to get creative and to come up with your own ideas! Through interdisciplinary group work, together as a group you will be able to present a problem and develop a (theoretical) solution to improve quality of life at University of Mosul. Everybody is welcome! There is no prior knowledge needed.

Lecturers: Mohammed Abdulelah Aljawadi, Haneen Shamel Mohammed (SDG-Ambassadors Mosul, Iraq), Larsa George Khosho (SDG-Ambassadors Dohukl, Iraq) & Kornelia Vogl, Lukas Kaiser (SDG-Ambassadors Graz, Austria).

Note: This workshop is held in English with translation provided.