A delegation consisting of seven students and one academic staff member from the Computer Engineering Department and a student from Computer Education department participated in an international Project Week in Germany under the theme “Digitalization of Cultural Heritage.” The visit was conducted within the framework of the Project Innovation Hub (PIH), a DAAD-supported program, and organized in close collaboration with Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences (THB), Germany, alongside partner universities from Iraq, including Mosul University, University of Thi-Qar.
International Collaboration and Academic Exchange
The Project Week marked the concluding phase of 3 years of collaborative activities dedicated to the digital preservation of cultural heritage in crisis-affected regions. In total, 35 students and researchers from different regions of Iraq—the north, south, and the Kurdistan Region (represented by TIU)—joined their German counterparts in Brandenburg, forming international and interdisciplinary teams.
The program aimed to strengthen academic cooperation, enhance applied digital skills, and foster cultural dialogue through hands-on project-based learning. Students from the Computer Engineering Department actively contributed their technical expertise to real-world digitalization challenges, working alongside peers from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.
Practical Work on Cultural Heritage Digitalization
A key component of the Project Week was the digitization of the historic cloister at the Archaeological Museum in Brandenburg. Using advanced digital tools and workflows, participants engaged in (3D scanning and photogrammetry, Digital documentation of tangible heritage, Concept development for virtual representation and accessibility, Content creation and storytelling for cultural preservation).
The students were deeply impressed by the historic architecture and unique atmosphere of the site, which many experienced for the first time beyond cinematic representations. The project allowed them to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications, demonstrating how digital technologies can safeguard heritage for future generations.
Academic Program and Workshops at THB
During the week, students participated in intensive workshops and academic sessions hosted on the THB campus in Brandenburg an der Havel, focusing on (Digitalization workflows for cultural heritage, Professional use of FARO laser scanner technology, Team-based concept development, Interim and final presentations evaluated by German and Iraqi professors).
These activities complemented earlier fieldwork conducted in Iraq, including the digital documentation of the UNESCO World Heritage Al-Chibayish Marshes, ensuring continuity between local data collection and international processing and presentation.
Cultural Exchange and Social Activities
Beyond academic work, the program placed strong emphasis on cultural exchange. Participants enjoyed joint activities such as: Visits to Berlin, Potsdam, and the Brandenburg lake district, Experiencing traditional German Christmas markets, Informal networking and teamwork across cultures.
The program concluded with a joint Christmas dinner at the shipyard and a formal reception at the Iraqi Embassy in Berlin, hosted by the Iraqi Ambassador, underscoring the diplomatic and cultural significance of the initiative.
The successful completion of the Project Week highlighted the strong partnership between German and TIU and reaffirmed the role of digital technologies in preserving cultural heritage. Participants gained valuable international experience, technical competencies, and intercultural skills.
Building on this success, partner universities have expressed their commitment to continuing the collaboration in the future, further expanding opportunities for students and staff in the field of digital heritage, innovation, and sustainable development.
