We are pleased to announce that Tishk International University (TIU) has joined the AI Olympiad 2026 as an official Knowledge Partner, in collaboration with Ovanya. The AI Olympiad 2026 is the first national artificial intelligence competition of its kind in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The competition is delivered in partnership with the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Erbil, with Rudaw Media Network as the official Media Partner.
The competition is open to participants aged 18 and above from Hewler, Slemani, Duhok, Halabja, and Kirkuk. Approximately one hundred applicants will be shortlisted and organized into teams of up to three participants. During a six-week development phase beginning in September 2026, participating teams will work on developing functional AI solutions that address real problems in the region. Throughout the development phase, teams will be supported through bootcamps and mentorship opportunities designed to help them develop and improve their solutions. This is a great opportunity to gain practical experience in Artificial Intelligence, work on real-world challenges, collaborate with other talented students, and receive mentorship from experts in the field.
If you are interested in AI, machine learning, software development, data science, or innovative technology, we strongly encourage you to take part.
About the Competition
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Open to anyone aged eighteen and over across Hewler, Slemani, Duhok, Halabja and Kirkuk
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Applications are individual; teams of a maximum of three are formed after shortlisting
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Around one hundred applicants are shortlisted for a six-week development phase, with bootcamps and mentorship
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Each of the three winning teams receives USD 10,000, a trip to South Korea and a job opportunity
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Organised by Ovanya in partnership with the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Erbil, with Rudaw Media Network documenting the full journey
Registration
Registration Link: Click here to register
Deadline for registration: 09/09/2026
