Student Exchange

Majdi Awad

Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Nature of participation:

Student Exchange.

Scientific and practical experience:

During my internship at Warith Al-Anbiya University in Karbala, Iraq, the campus was undergoing an infrastructure expansion. Five projects were being prepared simultaneously, each at a different stage, starting with the demolition of the previous building, excavations, and laying foundations, then moving on to the construction of the concrete structure and finishing touches. We toured daily with the engineers of these projects and closely followed the daily work. We learned about modern construction techniques and were introduced to real-time engineering project management mechanisms, how problems are resolved, and how tasks are scheduled. There, away from the sun and the smell of freshly poured reinforced concrete, in the city center, we made several introductory visits to hospitals and health centers affiliated with the Imam Hussein Shrine, where engineers and doctors collaborate to serve humanity.

Other activities:

In addition to the practical experience, visiting Iraq was a culturally and socially enriching experience. Karbala, the city we stayed in, is not just a place steeped in religious history; it is also a symbol of the resilience and will of a people striving to rise above the effects of war, suffering, and slums. During my time there, I saw how people strive with determination and a collective spirit to build a better future despite the challenges. I witnessed many noble qualities and humane values among the city's people. These values were not just slogans, but were part of daily life in Karbala. As for our visit to the capital, wherever we turned, we saw the facets of culture. How could it not be, when Baghdad is the capital of Islam, the land of men, the capital of the world, the haven of civilization, the home of knowledge, thinkers, and noble people, and a destination for poets and writers. This experience taught me that the role of an engineer is not limited to the technical aspect, but also includes contributing to building society and strengthening its values. I became more aware of the role of the Palestinian engineer in rebuilding and developing the places where they work, and contributing to the advancement of the country by providing innovative and sustainable solutions, following the example of the engineers of the Iraqi renaissance.