Professor Dr. Mohammed Miqdad, an economics professor at the faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences at the Islamic University of Gaza, has successfully concluded an international credit mobility period at Istanbul Technical University in Turkey. This endeavor was made possible through funding from the EU_Erasmus Plus program. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by the Erasmus Plus office team at Istanbul Technical University, represented by Dr. Murad Sari and Ms. Sümeyye Şimşek.
During his visit, Prof. Miqdad engaged in discussions and meetingss with Dean of the faculty of Management, Professor Mete Han YAĞMUR, and the Head of the Economics Department, Professor Bülent GÜLOĞLU, alongside several academic members of the Economics Department. The discussions revolved around a number of joint research projects of mutual interest between the Islamic University of Gaza and Istanbul Technical University. Agreements were reached to maintain communication and collaboration on forthcoming exchange projects or joint research ventures. Additionally, collaborative efforts in remote teaching of economics courses were emphasized.
The visit encompassed various tours of Istanbul Technical University’s campuses and facilities, introducing Prof. Miqdad to the Erasmus Center and its key activities. In coordination with the International Relations Department at the Islamic University of Gaza, Prof. Miqdad also visited Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University to explore avenues of cooperation and establish partnership relations between the two institutions. This was furthered through the signing of a memorandum of understanding and the commitment to developing joint projects in response to upcoming calls from the Erasmus Plus program.
Ms. Wala’a Safi, Coordinator of International Credit Mobility Projects at the Islamic University of Gaza, highlighted the participation in international mobility opportunities offers university staff the chance to enhance their communication skills with individuals from diverse cultures, foster an understanding of cultural diversity, and cultivate international collaboration abilities. Moreover, these mobilities provide an immersive academic environment, allowing staff to teach in various fields, share experiences, and disseminate knowledge with their international peers.
Ms. Safi also emphasized that the international mobility significantly enhances the quality of scientific research, facilitates the creation of international networks, positively impacting future collaboration and partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide. This allows the university to benefit from the high-level expertise and knowledge brought by its academic staff through international exchange, leading to improvements in teaching and research. This, in turn, boosts the university’s international reputation, fosters international cooperation, and opening the door for further academic, cultural, and research-based exchange opportunities across diverse domains.