International Workshop on “The Relationship Between Research and Economic Development” Held at University’s Korean Corner
On February 19th, 2025, the Accounting Department, Finance and Banking Department, and International Relations & Diplomacy Department in collaboration with Korean Corner hosted an engaging international workshop titled “The Relationship Between Research and Economic Development”. The event gathered distinguished experts and academics to explore the critical connections between research and economic development.
The workshop aimed to foster a deeper understanding of how academic research can inform and contribute to sustainable economic growth, particularly in emerging economies such as Kurdistan. By drawing comparisons between the development trajectories of countries like South Korea and Kurdistan. Two esteemed keynote speakers headlined the event:
Mr. Seungcheol Lim, Consul General of the Korean Consulate, delivered an insightful lecture on the history of South Korea’s economic development, emphasizing the strategic steps taken by the country to achieve rapid growth over the past few decades. Mr. Lim highlighted how Kurdistan can learn from South Korea’s developmental process, noting the importance of a strong economic research center and the role of patriotic academicians in fostering growth of Kurdistan. He outlined how lessons from South Korea’s experience could offer solutions to current challenges faced by Kurdistan. He concluded by stressing that Kurdistan’s economic development, driven by its patriots and research-backed strategies, can hold the potential for self-sufficiency and long-term prosperity.
The second speaker, Dr. Nabaz Taher Khayyat, Director at AWA Sustainable Development Kurdistan, provided a thought-provoking presentation on the difference between economic development in countries like Iraq and developed economies. He explored the concepts of economic growth, sustainability, and the role of research in shaping policies that support long-term development. Dr. Khayyat stressed the importance of moving beyond short-term economic indicators to focus on creating sustainable systems that can withstand global fluctuations. He also discussed the evolving role of research centers Such as KODE in enhancing policymaking and fostering an environment conducive to long-term development.
The attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions and shared perspectives on how to strengthen the link between academic research and practical economic strategies to address local and global challenges. The objective of the workshop was met, as it fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue, encouraged collaboration between departments, and provided practical insights that can contribute to the development of effective economic strategies for Kurdistan and beyond. During the interactive Question and Answer session, students and faculty members had the opportunity to engage directly with the keynote speakers. The questions covered a wide range of topics, including the practical challenges of implementing research-based economic policies in Kurdistan, the role of youth in driving sustainable development, and how emerging economies can balance rapid growth with environmental sustainability. Both Mr. Seungcheol Lim and Dr. Nabaz Taher Khayyat provided insightful answers, drawing on their extensive experience to offer tailored advice and solutions for Kurdistan’s development trajectory.
