College of Political Sciences

In line with the Sustainable Development Goals—Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals—and in cooperation with the Department of Studies and Planning / Sustainable Development Unit at the Presidency of the University of Mosul, Assistant Professor Dr. Laith Muzahim Khudair, a lecturer in the Public Policy branch of the College of Political Science, attended the scientific workshop entitled “Engaged and Participatory Research in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)”, organized by the American Political Science Association (APSA), held during the period 5–8 January 2026.

The workshop aimed to enhance researchers’ capacities to employ engaged and participatory research methodologies within the political and social contexts of the Middle East and North Africa. It also sought to discuss the methodological, ethical, and practical challenges associated with applied research beyond traditional academic frameworks, through building regional and international research networks that support scientific collaboration and contribute to the development of applied political studies in the region.

The workshop included a range of diverse academic activities, such as specialized lectures, a roundtable discussion, and interactive scholarly debates. It was held in the State of Qatar in cooperation with the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies (DI).

For its part, the College Deanship emphasized the importance of faculty participation in such scientific and knowledge-based activities, given their essential role in developing academic competencies and keeping abreast of the latest contemporary research methodologies, in a manner that positively reflects on teaching and research performance, in service of humanity and society at large.