Cihan University-Erbil Student in Poland: Seminar Presentation on Economic Development in the Kurdistan Region

Diar Iskandar Saleem Babakr, a Computer Science Department student at Cihan University-Erbil, currently pursuing a course at the University of Lodz in Poland, delivered a significant seminar titled Between Two Cities – A Journey from Erbil to Łódź.

The seminar, organized by the Faculty of Economics and Sociology at the University of Lodz, took place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. It focused on the characteristics of the economy of the Kurdistan Region and selected problems related to Islamic culture and finance. It commenced with opening remarks by Professor Mariusz Sokołowicz, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Sociology, and Professor Tomasz Dorożyński, Director of the Institute of Economics.

The presentation highlighted the differences and similarities between the two cities, including the challenges of finding employment opportunities. During the seminar, he discussed the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) efforts to establish an independent economy and increase non-oil revenue sources. Additionally, he presented several strategic and long-term projects that have been implemented across all governorates of the region. These included My Account (Hajmary Min), JOBS.KRD, a rapid response project addressing clean water issues, a 24-hour electricity supply project, the industrialization of agricultural products, the establishment of industrial complexes, and an emphasis on tourism and roads, all of which have contributed to the creation of job opportunities for youth throughout the region.