Shayan: In collaboration with Bauhaus University-Weimar, the Kurdistan Educational Seismic Observatory (KESO) was officially inaugurated on October 26th, 2023, marking a milestone in seismic research and natural hazard assessment. The ceremony featured a panel discussion on “Structural Engineering Contributions to Hazard Resilience Society.” The panel, moderated by Baban Bapir, included notable speakers such as Prof. Lars from Bauhaus University, Dr. Agreen Abdullah, the Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Housing and Construction, and Prof. Dr. Omar Qarani, the President of the ACI Kurdistan Chapter.
One of the event’s highlights was a presentation by Peshawa Luqman Hassan, who provided insights into the “Multiscale Consequence Studies for Hazard Impact on Structures in Iraq.” This research initiative aims to analyze the effects of natural hazards on structures, identify high-risk areas, and develop robust solutions to improve construction practices and mitigate risks. It represents a critical step in enhancing the resilience of buildings and infrastructure in the region.
The significance of this event was underscored by the presence of high-ranking officials, including the Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Housing and Construction, the General Director for the Joint Crises Coordination Center (JCC) in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the General Director for Weathering and Earthquake of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the President and Deputy President of the Engineering Syndicate of Kurdistan, and the Consultant for the Prime Minister DAAD representative for Iraq Jwan Khalis, Consul for Economic Cooperation and Development Alexendra Guhr. Also in attendance was the President of the ACI Kurdistan Chapter.
The launch of KESO has far-reaching implications, not only for academia but for the broader community. The observatory will serve as a hub for data collection, analysis, and dissemination, fostering collaborative research, supporting development projects, and amplifying the resilience of structures and infrastructure in Kurdistan and Iraq.
The event received extensive media coverage, with numerous television channels and media outlets spreading the news to the public. In addition to the distinguished guests, the audience included structural designers from the industry, academics, and students, all of whom recognize the importance of KESO in advancing seismic research and hazard preparedness in the region. KESO’s inauguration is a meaningful step towards a safer and more resilient future for Kurdistan and Iraq, underlining the commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the well-being of the people in the region. This observatory is poised to significantly impact safety, research, and education in the field of seismic studies.
The event received extensive media coverage, with numerous television channels and media outlets spreading the news to the public. In addition to the distinguished guests, the audience included structural designers from the industry, academics, and students, all of whom recognize the importance of KESO in advancing seismic research and hazard preparedness in the region. KESO’s inauguration is a meaningful step towards a safer and more resilient future for Kurdistan and Iraq, underlining the commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the well-being of the people in the region. This observatory is poised to significantly impact safety, research, and education in the field of seismic studies.
