On September 11, 2024, the Petroleum and Mining Engineering Department at Tishk International University (TIU), in collaboration with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Northern Iraq Section and Pulsar Petroleum Company, hosted a comprehensive training course titled “Kurdistan Geology and Drilling Problems in Kurdistan Wells.” The course provided in-depth knowledge on the geology of the Kurdistan region and the common drilling challenges encountered in the area.
Day-by-Day Course Breakdown
Day 1: The program began with Dr. Dilshad Ali, a lecturer from Royal Holloway University, who covered a broad introduction to geology. This session provided participants with a solid grounding in fundamental concepts such as stratigraphy, petrology, and sedimentary depositional environments.
Day 2: The second day, led by Mr. Sameer Younus, a Drilling and Completions Supervisor, focused on the operational challenges in Kurdistan’s oil fields. The session offered a detailed overview of common drilling issues, including well problems and operational difficulties, and prepared participants for a field trip by discussing geological formations and real-world drilling challenges.
Day 3: The final day featured a field trip that started from Erbil and headed towards Bekhma Dam for geological exploration. This practical session allowed participants to observe and analyze recent deposits and various geological sections along the route, offering valuable hands-on insights into the topics discussed in the classroom.
Participation and Outcomes
The training course was a great success, with more than 50 participants taking part. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn from industry experts like Dr. Dilshad Ali and Mr. Sameer Younus, stating they had gained valuable knowledge and experience applicable to their future careers.
This training is part of an ongoing series of programs by the Petroleum and Mining Engineering Department at TIU, in cooperation with SPE Northern Iraq Section and Pulsar Petroleum Company, reflecting TIU’s commitment to enhancing the practical and theoretical knowledge of students and professionals in the field.
Keywords: Engineering Education, Participation, Training, Course, University Students, Higher Education, Teaching, Learning
