On February 19, 2025, the Accounting, Finance & Banking, and International Relations & Diplomacy departments at Tishk International University, in collaboration with 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 links between research and sustainable economic growth.
The workshop’s goal was to foster a deeper understanding of how academic research can contribute to economic development, particularly in emerging economies like the Kurdistan Region. The event featured two keynote speakers who drew comparisons between the development of South Korea and Kurdistan.
Mr. Seungcheol Lim, Consul General of the Korean Consulate, delivered an insightful lecture on South Korea’s economic development history. He emphasized the strategic steps the country took to achieve rapid growth, highlighting lessons Kurdistan can learn, such as the importance of a strong economic research center and the role of patriotic academics. Mr. Lim stressed that Kurdistan’s development, driven by its people and research-backed strategies, holds 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 differences in economic development between countries like Iraq and more developed economies. He discussed the concepts of economic growth, sustainability, and the role of research in shaping long-term policies. Dr. Khayyat stressed the importance of moving beyond short-term indicators to focus on creating sustainable systems.
Attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions on how to strengthen the link between academic research and practical economic strategies. The workshop successfully fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue and provided valuable insights that can contribute to effective economic strategies for Kurdistan and beyond. The interactive Q&A session allowed students and faculty to engage directly with the speakers on topics like the practical challenges of implementing research-based policies, the role of youth, and balancing rapid growth with environmental sustainability. Both speakers offered insightful advice, drawing on their extensive experience to provide tailored solutions for Kurdistan’s development.
Keywords: Research, Economic Development, South Korea, Kurdistan, Sustainable Development, Academia, Korean Corner, Tishk International University
