About the Conference

1st International Conference on Applied Sciences and Development

Applied Sciences Universities: The Concept, Curricula and Challenges

The 1st International Conference on Applied Sciences and Development (ICASD2026), under the subtitle Applied Sciences Universities: The Concept, Curricula and Challenges, will be held on 15th - 16th September, 2026 at Akre University for Applied Sciences, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

ICASD2026 represents a strategic academic initiative aligned with national and regional priorities for reforming higher education and strengthening the role of Applied Sciences Universities in economic and societal development.

ICASD2026 aims to provide a dynamic platform for researchers, academics, policymakers, industry leaders, and innovation stakeholders to engage in critical dialogue on strategic policies, international models, curricula design, industry collaboration, research and innovation, and smart education including Artificial Intelligence integration in teaching and learning. The conference seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry, promote competency-based education, and foster interdisciplinary and international collaboration.

Through keynote speeches, technical sessions or workshops, panel discussions, and research papers, ICASD2026 aims to generate policy recommendations, promote applied research and innovation, enhance employability opportunities through structured internship systems, and establish sustainable partnerships between academia, industry, and governmental bodies. The conference will also highlight recent research in Applied Sciences across applied sciences disciplines. The outcomes of ICASD2026 will contribute to strengthening institutional capacity, improving educational quality, and supporting sustainable economic growth at both regional and national levels.

Date 15th - 16th September, 2026
Venue Conference Hall - Akre University for Applied Sciences
Organizer Akre University for Applied Sciences
visibility

Vision

To establish the 1st International Conference on Applied Sciences as a leading global forum that advances policies, curricula innovation, industry collaboration, research excellence, and smart education in Applied Sciences, strengthening the role of Applied Sciences Universities in driving sustainable development and economic growth in Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and beyond.

Mission

Strategic priorities

  1. Advance Policies and Strategic Frameworks

    Setup policies of Applied Sciences in higher education in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, and explore successful international models and best practices for institutional development.

  2. Enhance Curricula Design and Academic Excellence

    Promote modern, competency-based curricula aligned with labor market needs and strengthen outcome-based education approaches in Applied Sciences programs.

  3. Strengthen Industry Collaboration and Market Linkage

    Foster strong partnerships between universities and industry sectors, and improve internship systems and practical training opportunities to enhance graduate employability.

  4. Promote Research and Innovation

    Encourage applied research that addresses real-world challenges and support innovation ecosystems connecting academia, industry, and community.

  5. Transform Teaching and Learning Methods

    Integrate smart education, digital learning, and Artificial Intelligence into teaching practices, identify implementation challenges, and develop strategies to overcome resistance to digital transformation in higher education institutions.

  6. Advances and Innovation in Applied Sciences

    Highlight interdisciplinary advances that strengthen Applied Sciences education, research, and development.

Keynote Speakers

International and national voices

Prof. Dr. Ekin Burak Arikan
International Keynote Speaker

Prof. Dr. Ekin Burak Arikan

Turkey

Prof. Dr. Azad Al-Najar
International Keynote Speaker

Prof. Dr. Azad Al-Najar

Sweden

Prof. Dr. Kawa Shirwani
National Keynote Speaker

Prof. Dr. Kawa Shirwani

Erbil International University

Prof. Dr. Mohammed Hussein Kalary
National Keynote Speaker

Prof. Dr. Mohammed Hussein Kalary

Ministry of Higher Education