On June 1, 2026, the Petroleum and Mining Engineering Department at Tishk International University successfully concluded training programs for third-grade students. Specifically, the department hosted the Entrepreneurship Training Program and the Career Development Skills Training Program. These initiatives are part of the university’s broader plan to thoroughly prepare students for the professional world.
Furthermore, the timing of these training programs was essential. Third-grade students will begin their mandatory industrial internships this summer. Therefore, it was necessary to equip them with practical workplace skills before they step into actual engineering environments. Consequently, the participants now feel much more confident about their upcoming summer placements.
Both of these comprehensive courses provided 16 hours of dedicated instruction. The Entrepreneurship Training Program taught students how to identify business opportunities within the engineering sector. Meanwhile, the Career Development Skills Training Program focused on professional communication and workplace etiquette. In addition, these targeted topics ensure that our graduates stand out in a competitive job market.
Moreover, the department executed this educational effort in close coordination with the Career Development Center at TIU. The center actively managed all communications and professional relationships with the participating external organizations. Specifically, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq designed and oriented the curricula. Furthermore, they developed the instructional content in close partnership with the Rwanga Foundation and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). As a result, the comprehensive instruction perfectly meets high international standards for youth empowerment.
Mr. Omar Azad successfully delivered both training programs at the department. To prepare for this role, he previously completed a rigorous Training of Trainers (TOT) course hosted by the Rwanga Foundation. His excellent preparation led to highly engaging sessions. The students participated actively, maintaining perfect interaction and contributing thoughtfully to the daily discussions.
Finally, the students clearly recognized how these lessons directly relate to their future lives and careers. The department remains completely dedicated to producing well-rounded, capable engineers. This activity supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting lifelong learning and preparing youth for sustainable employment.
