About
Project title:
“Reinforcing Integration of Skills for Employability and Internationalisation in Kurdistan region of Iraq” -
Rise
Programme:
Erasmus+, KA2 – Capacity building in the field of higher education – Strand 1. The project has been funded with the support of the European Union.
Project duration:
from February 1, 2025
to January 31, 2027
MISSION STATEMENT:
The RISE Project is dedicated to strengthening higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq as key drivers of social and economic transformation in the local and global scenario. Recognizing the essential role of universities in shaping responsible global citizens, addressing the gap between academia and industry and by reinforcing internationalisation, RISE aims to foster a new generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals equipped to navigate both local and global challenges.
Project specific objectives:
With the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research KRG as an associated partner, RISE fits with their strategy and reform process, by ensuring the scalability of its model, supporting the competitiveness and attractiveness of Kurdish universities both locally and internationally.
RISE aims to create synergies between internationalization and employability strategies with the ultimate goal of reinforcing the capacity of universities to produce open-minded capable young Kurdish graduates The Ministry’s involvement guarantees the wider adoption of project outcomes, ensuring long lasting impact across the region.
Key expected results:
- 7 Roadmaps for internationalisation
- 7 Roadmaps for entrepreneurship career development
- 1 Synergy Roadmap for Kurdish universities
- 35 trainees for capacity building in Europe
- 150 trainees in the local trainings
- 1 Handbook of training resources
- 1 open online courses
- 1 International Mobility Day organised in each Kurdish HEIs
- 1 Career Day organised in each Kurdish HEIs
- 1 Start Cup Competition with international students
- 29 Students and staff from Kurdish and European partners connect and collaborate for the Start Cup Competition
- 1 Networking event with stakeholders (national, local and international)
Short-term Impact
- Within HEIs: Provides training opportunities and training-of-trainers for both academic and non-academic staff.
- Beyond Academia: Engages local and national authorities, international NGOs, civil society organizations (CSOs), and businesses to foster socio-economic development.
Long-term Impact
- Strategy and Governance: Establishes a methodology suited to the Kurdish context to ensure the sustainability of internationalization and career development initiatives.
- Outreach: Enhances dialogue with local and national stakeholders to align higher education institutions with societal needs.
- Employability and Networking: Strengthens partnerships between universities and the socio-economic sector to boost graduates' career prospects.
- International Cooperation: Promotes collaboration between Kurdish HEIs and European institutions.