Sulaimani, Iraq – The Computer Engineering and Information Technology Departments at Tishk International University (TIU), in collaboration with industry professionals and academic researchers, successfully organized the National Workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT for Smart Cities in the Kurdistan Region on May 5th, 2025. This workshop was part of the departments’ ongoing academic and technical initiatives to promote hands-on learning, innovation, and practical applications of smart technologies. The event served as a platform to unite academic speakers, researchers, engineers, and industry professionals to share knowledge and explore the role of AI and IoT in shaping smart homes, smart cities, and the digital transformation of the Kurdistan Region.

Distinguished Speakers and Key Topics

The workshop brought together a panel of distinguished speakers who shared their knowledge and insights on the role of AI and IoT in shaping the future. The speakers and their topics included:

  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Aso Mohammed Aladdin from Charmo University, who spoke on “Integrating Artificial Intelligence with IoT and Embedded Systems: Understanding the Differences and Shaping the Future of Smart Technology.”
  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Hozan Khalid Hamarashid from Sulaimani Polytechnic University, who discussed “Artificial Intelligence and IoT in Smart Cities in Kurdistan.”
  • Eng. Mohammed Alsada, Founder of Erbil Makers Hub, who led an industrial session and practical demonstration.

Workshop Highlights

The workshop covered a wide range of essential topics, including an introduction to AI and its integration with IoT technologies, and how AI enables real-time automation, intelligent predictions, and smarter decision-making. The sessions also explored industrial and real-life applications of IoT in smart homes and smart cities using platforms like ESP32, Arduino, STM32, and Raspberry Pi. A key focus was on the current landscape and future outlook of smart technologies in the Kurdistan Region. A practical, hands-on industrial session led by Eng. Mohammed Alsada demonstrated the use of microcontrollers in real-world smart applications, such as robotic arms and automation systems.

Conclusion

The workshop was a great success, offering valuable insights and real-world knowledge to all participants. It fostered collaboration among academia and industry and highlighted the immense potential of AI and IoT to transform cities and daily life in the Kurdistan Region. The event concluded with a certificate distribution and group photo, underscoring the value of interdisciplinary cooperation and the practical application of emerging technologies.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, AI, Internet of Things, IoT, Smart Cities, Workshop, National Workshop, Tishk International University, Technology, Innovation, Kurdistan Region, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Academic Event