The University of Garmian has officially commenced its role as a partner in IP-CHART (The Innovative Pathways for Cultural Heritage and Tourism Development in Iraqi Kurdistan) project funded by the European Union. The initiative focuses on Building capacity for regional development and internationalisation، Modernising higher education in heritage studies، Enhancing employability and skills development in the cultural and natural heritage sector and Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and networking.

During the virtual inaugural convention, which included a consortium of European and domestic institutions, Mr. Mabast Ali, representing the University of Garmian, delivered a briefing on institutional strategies to counter contemporary threats to material cultural heritage through inter-university and localized partnerships.

Core Deliverables and Institutional Milestones

The three-year international framework yields critical assets for the university:

• Infrastructure Acquisition: The establishment of a dedicated, campus-based archaeological research laboratory funded by an EU allocation of approximately €50,000.

• Academic Capacity Building: A series of scientific conferences, specialized workshops, and symposia designed to cultivate advanced research competencies among university faculty and postgraduate students.

• Public Outreach Frameworks: The deployment of collaborative programs aimed at elevating public awareness regarding the protection and academic documentation of local heritage.

This partnership advances the University of Garmian's institutional mandate to leverage global academic networks for regional heritage preservation and scientific research development.