On February 19, 2025, the Accounting, Finance and Banking, and International Relations & Diplomacy Departments at Tishk International University (TIU), in collaboration with the Korean Corner, hosted an international workshop titled “The Relationship Between Research and Economic Development.” The event brought together distinguished experts and academics to explore the crucial connections between research and economic growth.
The workshop aimed to deepen the understanding of how academic research can contribute to sustainable economic growth, particularly in emerging economies like Kurdistan. It achieved this by drawing comparisons with the developmental trajectory of countries such as South Korea.
Key Presentations
The event was headlined by two esteemed speakers:
- Mr. Seungcheol Lim, Consul General of the Korean Consulate, provided an insightful lecture on the history of South Korea’s economic development. He emphasized the strategic steps the country took to achieve rapid growth and highlighted how Kurdistan can learn from this process. Mr. Lim stressed the importance of a strong economic research center and the role of patriotic academicians in fostering growth, suggesting that lessons from South Korea’s experience could offer solutions to Kurdistan’s current challenges. He concluded by noting that Kurdistan’s economic development, driven by its patriots and research-backed strategies, holds the potential for self-sufficiency and long-term prosperity.
- Dr. Nabaz Taher Khayyat, Director at AWA Sustainable Development Kurdistan, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the differences in economic development between countries like Iraq and developed economies. He explored the concepts of economic growth, sustainability, and the critical role of research in shaping policies for long-term development. Dr. Khayyat emphasized the need to focus on creating sustainable systems that can withstand global fluctuations, rather than just short-term economic indicators. He also discussed the evolving role of research centers, such as KODE, in enhancing policymaking.
Discussion and Outcome
The workshop concluded with a thoughtful and interactive Q&A session. Students and faculty members engaged directly with the speakers on topics ranging from the practical challenges of implementing research-based economic policies in Kurdistan to the role of youth in driving sustainable development. Both Mr. Lim and Dr. Khayyat offered insightful, tailored advice based on their extensive experience.
The event successfully fostered a cross-disciplinary dialogue and encouraged collaboration, providing practical insights that can contribute to the development of effective economic strategies for Kurdistan and beyond.
Keywords: Research, Economic Development, Workshop, Tishk International University, South Korea, Kurdistan, Sustainable Development
