Tishk International University (TIU), Sulaimani, proudly hosted an international workshop titled “Data, Design, and Sustainability: Engineering Solutions for a Smarter Future” on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025. Organized by the Department of Civil Engineering, the event took place at the TIU Conference Hall and drew considerable participation from academic staff, engineering professionals, researchers, and students from various fields.
Bridging Data, Design, and Sustainability
The workshop aimed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue on the importance of integrating data analytics, sustainable design, and digital innovation in modern engineering practices. With the global push for more resilient infrastructure and environmentally responsible development, the event served as a timely platform to exchange knowledge and showcase cutting-edge research and solutions.
Distinguished Speakers and Topics
The program featured presentations by two esteemed guest speakers, who brought unique perspectives and practical expertise to the table:
Prof. Dr. Kourosh Dadkhah
Presentation Title: “R, RStudio & R Markdown for Engineers”
Dr. Dadkhah delivered a highly practical and informative session focused on the application of open-source software in engineering. He introduced participants to R programming, RStudio, and R Markdown as essential tools for statistical analysis, reproducible research, and professional reporting. The talk emphasized how these tools can enhance the quality and efficiency of data handling in engineering projects, empowering engineers to manage large datasets and communicate results with clarity and transparency.
EUR ING Babak Yeganegy-Bruckhoff
Presentation Title: “Empowering Smart Farming: Advancing Subsurface Drip Irrigation with Upcycled PCs as Smart Controllers – Unlock Sustainable Agriculture with Digital Innovation”
In a dynamic and forward-thinking presentation, Mr. Yeganegy-Bruckhoff highlighted the power of digital transformation in agriculture. He showcased how repurposed personal computers can be converted into smart controllers for subsurface drip irrigation systems, significantly reducing water waste while increasing crop efficiency. His work demonstrated how low-cost digital innovations can promote sustainable farming practices, particularly in regions facing water scarcity and environmental stress.
A Platform for Knowledge Exchange
The workshop was well-received by attendees, who appreciated the relevance of the topics and the interactive nature of the presentations. Following the sessions, a Q&A segment encouraged fruitful discussions, allowing participants to delve deeper into the technical aspects and explore future applications of the presented ideas.
Faculty members from TIU, visiting academics, and students all expressed interest in further collaboration and research in the areas of sustainable development, smart technologies, and data literacy for engineers. The event also served as a networking opportunity for professionals and academics committed to driving innovation in engineering education and practice.
This international workshop reflects TIU’s ongoing commitment to providing a platform for high-impact academic exchange and global knowledge sharing. By bridging theoretical insights with real-world applications, TIU continues to position itself as a leader in engineering education that responds to the world’s pressing sustainability challenges.
The Department of Civil Engineering extends its sincere gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and participants for making the workshop a meaningful and successful event.
Keywords: Civil Engineering, International Workshop, Data Analytics, Sustainable Design, Digital Innovation, Tishk International University, Smart Farming, Engineering Education, Engineering Solutions, ITEC
