The Presidency of the University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa (PBUH) actively participated in the "Conference on Technological and Scientific Incubators," marking a significant step towards fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Iraq.
With the presence of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Naeem Al-Aboudi, the university president, Professor Dr. Ibrahim Al-Hayawi, contributed to discussions emphasising the critical role of technological and scientific incubators in advancing innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic development. The focus of the conference aligns with several key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by encouraging the development of startups and innovative solutions that generate employment and stimulate sustainable economic progress.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, through the promotion of cutting-edge research and technological solutions that support industrial growth and infrastructure improvements.
- SDG 4: Quality Education, by creating pathways for students to engage in practical, hands-on innovation, enhancing their skills, and preparing them for real-world challenges.
During the conference, the Minister of Education officially launched the initiative to establish technological and scientific incubators within universities, reinforcing a national commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic resilience. This initiative is seen as a catalyst for bridging academia and industry, ensuring that innovation translates into tangible benefits for society.
In line with this vision, the University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa (PBUH) has taken the lead by establishing an Industrial Incubators Centre. This centre is dedicated to nurturing engineering and industrial innovations, with a particular focus on supporting and developing students' innovative projects. The centre not only fosters academic excellence but also plays a pivotal role in supporting Iraq's industrial sector, which is vital for economic growth.
The centre facilitates the process by collaborating with specialised faculty members from the College of Engineering, who assess and guide the development of innovative ideas. Once vetted, the centre provides comprehensive support, including resources, technical expertise, and mentorship, to bring these ideas to life. Furthermore, the centre aims to connect successful projects with private investment companies, accelerating their transition into viable industrial products.
By aligning with the SDGs, the University Warith Al-Anbiyaa's incubator initiative is creating a robust ecosystem that supports innovation, drives economic growth, and fosters sustainable development, ensuring a brighter future for the Iraqi economy and its people.