We talk to Mustafa Yahya Faraj, an archaeologist with the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage. Mustafa held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at UCL. His project is titled Nineveh Gates: Challenges, Sustainability and Strengthening Community Relations in Mosul and is under the supervision of Professor Mark Altaweel.

Mustafa with Prof Eleanor Robson at UCL

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m an archaeologist from Mosul, Iraq. I hold both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Ancient Archaeology from the University of Mosul, and I have been working with the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage of Iraq (SBAH) since 2013. I have worked at some of Iraq’s most significant heritage sites, including Nineveh, Nimrud, and the Mosul Museum, where I’ve been actively involved in excavation, restoration, and emergency rescue projects. These experiences have also allowed me to collaborate with esteemed institutions such as the University of Mosul, the Smithsonian Institution, and the University of Heidelberg.

From 2023 to 2025, I was part of—and helped lead—the restoration project of the Mar Toma Syriac Orthodox Church in the old city of Mosul. This initiative, supported by the ALIPH Foundation and L’Œuvre d’Orient, aimed to revive one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. I’m also passionate about documenting historical buildings and sites, especially in Mosul before and after the ISIS occupation. My work includes extensive photographic and written documentation to help preserve cultural memory and identity.

I have completed several international training programs, including a rescue archaeology course at the Iraqi Institute for the Conservation of Antiquities and Heritage (IICAH) in Erbil, and courses on archaeological entrepreneurship offered by Koç University and the University of Bologna. In 2025, I was honored to serve as a Visiting Scholar at the Institute of Archaeology – UCL, where I conducted research on the social, economic, and cultural impact of the Gates of Nineveh on the local community.

I am a member of ICOMOS and ISCARSAH, and throughout my career, I have received over fifteen certificates and letters of appreciation from both Iraqi and international institutions in recognition of my contributions to heritage preservation.

Tell us more about your project.

My research project focuses on the Gates of Nineveh from three key aspects. First, it involves assessing their current condition, documenting violations, and reviewing previous excavation rescue and restoration efforts after 2017. Second, it explores sustainable approaches to the conservation and management of the gates. Third, it examines the relationship between the gates and the local community, how people interact with these structures and perceive them as symbols of heritage and identity.

How was your Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK?

My Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK was truly transformative, both academically and personally. I had the honor of joining the Institute of Archaeology at University College London (UCL) as a Visiting Scholar, where I focused on researching the Gates of Nineveh. This opportunity allowed me to engage with outstanding researchers, and explore the British Museum and UCL’s extensive library collections.

Living in the UK gave me the chance to learn about the country’s rich heritage and preservation practices. I visited several historic sites including Avebury, King Richard III Visitor Centre, and the city of Bath. These visits offered hands-on insight into how archaeological sites are presented, protected, and integrated into public life. I was especially impressed by the museum interpretation techniques, the integration of digital media in storytelling, and the urban planning efforts to preserve architectural identity in historic cities like Bath.

Equally important were the cultural experiences exploring London’s communities, visiting monuments and landmarks, and building friendships with people from around the world. These moments broadened my perspective and strengthened my belief in the importance of international collaboration in cultural heritage protection.

The knowledge, skills, and inspiration I gained during this scholarship are already influencing my work in Iraq, especially in documentation and site management. I am grateful to the British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI) and Nahrain Network for making this journey possible, and I look forward to building on this experience in future heritage projects.

What were the main benefits of your scholarship?

I was given a remarkable opportunity to start conduct research on the Gates of Nineveh at the Institute of Archaeology – UCL, focusing on four key aspects. First, the study the current condition of the gates and the violations they have been subjected. Second, it explored methods of archaeological site management and sustainability, with the aim of adopted these practices to the Gates of Nineveh. Third, it investigated the relationship between the gates and the local community, considering them as symbols of cultural identity, tourist attractions, and potential agents of community healing in Mosul’s post-conflict context. Finally, the research involved the creation of a new multi-layered map of the Gates of Nineveh, based on aerial and satellite imagery. This map includes three layers: the first from Royal Air Force (RAF) aerial photographs taken in the 1920s, the second from CORONA satellite images dating to the 1960s, and the third from recent satellite imagery, allowing for a comparative analysis of the gates condition over the past 100 years. Without this generous scholarship, it would not have been possible to carry out the research in such depth and from these important perspectives.

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

The main benefits of my scholarship included access to academic resources at UCL and the other institutions, as well as the opportunity to engage with leading experts in archaeology and heritage preservation. I visited archaeological sites and museums across the UK to learn new methods of site management and sustainability, with the aim of adopted these practices to the Gates of Nineveh. The experience also allowed me to expand my professional network and gain valuable insights into the protection and promotion of cultural heritage.

What were the main things you learnt from your Host Institution?

From my host institution and supervisor, I learned advanced methods of interpretation and heritage management. I gained a deeper understanding of conservation and promotion strategies for archaeological sites, enhanced my academic research skills, and learned how UK institutions collaborate with local and international partners on heritage projects.

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in Iraq?

The scholarship has significantly strengthened my ability to contribute to the preservation of Iraq’s heritage. It equipped me with sustainable methods for managing archaeological sites, which I can apply in Mosul. Additionally, it broadened my perspective on how heritage can serve as a powerful tool for reconciliation, education, and economic development.

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

I will continue my research by collecting field data from the Nineveh Gates, analysing satellite imagery, and interviewing local residents about the cultural significance of the gates. I plan to publish my results and contribute to national and international discussions on the preservation and future of Nineveh’s heritage.

We talk to Dr. Ahmed A. Al-Imarah, Professor of Higher Education Management at theUniversity of Kufa. Dr. Ahmed held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at the University of Oxford, Department of Education. Dr. Ahmed’s project is titled Iraq’s Higher Education Cultural Heritage Curricula and is under the supervision of Professor Nigel Fancourt.

Dr Ahmed at UCL

What were the main benefits of your scholarship?

• The scholarship provided the opportunity to systematically map, assess, and enhance cultural heritage curricula in Iraq’s higher education system.
• Collaboration with Oxford University academics, particularly Professor Nigel Fancourt, led to developing a research proposal on how universities can support cultural heritage.
• Access to Oxford’s scientific references and academic resources significantly contributed to advancing research.
• Participation in weekly seminars, lectures, and networking with faculty and PhD students expanded academic skills and research perspectives.
• Visiting museums deepened the understanding of tangible heritage and its role in fostering social cohesion and cultural appreciation.

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

• A key highlight was the development of a collaborative research plan with Oxford University staff to address gaps in cultural heritage education. This included examining how universities can support cultural heritage and engaging in meaningful discussions about its societal impact.
• Another significant moment was delivering a joint lecture with Professor Fancourt at the Iraqi Embassy in London, discussing opportunities for collaboration between Iraqi and British universities.

What were the main things you learned from your host institution?

• Insight into curriculum design mechanisms across different educational systems, with a focus on improving Iraq’s cultural heritage education.
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in cultural heritage studies.
• Effective methods for integrating cultural heritage themes into university programs to promote social cohesion and national diversity.
• The value of museums in preserving history and fostering a shared cultural identity.
• Best practices for conducting and publishing academic research, particularly in underexplored areas like Iraqi universities and their role in cultural heritage.

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in Iraq?

• It has provided a foundation for enhancing cultural heritage curricula in Iraqi universities by incorporating global best practices.
• The collaborative research proposal with Oxford University will contribute to addressing gaps in Iraq’s higher education sector.
• Connections established during the visit will facilitate future academic partnerships and knowledge exchange between Iraqi and British institutions.
• The insights gained from museum visits and academic discussions will be applied to promote awareness of Iraq’s tangible and intangible heritage.
• The discussions at the Iraqi Embassy contributed to shaping higher education policies by identifying areas for cooperation between Iraqi and UK universities.

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

• Implement the findings from the research project into the cultural heritage curricula at the University of Kufa.
• Continue collaboration with Oxford University through the extended university ID, allowing further access to academic resources.
• Organize a training program on global research methodologies for Iraqi professors.
• Work on publishing research on the role of Iraqi universities in supporting cultural heritage.
• Promote interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage studies and encourage faculty members to integrate these topics into their teaching.
• Advocate for academic partnerships between Iraqi and British universities, focusing on faculty exchange, student opportunities, and research collaborations.

Dr Ahmed at UCL

Dr. Bzhar Othman Ahmed, a history lecturer at Soran University in Soran City in Erbil, has been awarded a Nahrein Network – BISI Visiting Scholarship at the London School of Economics Middle East Centre (LSE-MEC) for his research project, The Work and Heritage of the Jews of Koya (1918-1951). His research focuses on reviving the historical trades and cultural heritage of the Jewish community in Koya, including traditional occupations such as carpentry, jewelry making, tailoring, dyeing, and clothing design.

As part of his scholarship, Dr. Bzhar is utilizing archives from The National Archives and the British Library, which hold significant records on the Jewish community of Koya and Iraq. His initiative aims to create a digitized collection of archival records, preserving and shedding light on the rich history of Koya and its Jewish heritage.

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Dr. Bzhar delivered a presentation at LSE-MEC on his latest research topic, The Economic Life of Jews in Koya (1918-1951). The seminar was attended by scholars from various universities and academic institutions, including the Dean and Deputy Dean of LSE-MEC, researchers, counselors, and members of the British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI). Notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Erica Hunter, Dr. Noorah Al Gailani, and Joan Porter MacIver.

Dr. Bzhar began his presentation by introducing himself as a Nahrein Network – BISI Visiting Scholar and providing an overview of his home institution, Soran University. He then shared updates and outcomes from his latest research. The findings from this project will soon be published in two articles, offering unprecedented insights into the economic life and Jewish heritage of Koya from 1918 to 1951.

Through this scholarship, Dr. Bzhar’s work is not only uncovering a largely overlooked aspect of Iraq’s diverse cultural past but also ensuring that the heritage of Koya’s Jewish community is preserved for future generations.

We talk to Nawar Ihsan, Antiquities Restorer at The Iraq Museum. Nawar held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at The British Museum with Dr Paul Collins.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Nawar Ihsan. I come from a family interested in heritage and art. My grandfather was a sculptor and had turned his house into a museum. I have been working in the field of Iraqi heritage for more than twelve years. I worked as director of the Iraqi Fashion Museum. I also designed historical and heritage costumes and had artistic works such as paintings from Iraqi heritage. I moved to work in the Iraqi Museum, where I was the artistic director for the museum halls, and then my final stop was the restoration and maintenance of antiquities. My learning was at the hands of Italian experts, and I gained experience through my work practice.

I also have many projects in the field, where I carried out technical maintenance for the most important monuments displayed in the Iraq Museum, such as winged bulls, Assyrian murals, the wall of the Temple of Uruk, Sumerian urns, and many others. Also, on a more comprehensive level, I carried out artistic maintenance. The entire museum collection is in the Basra Cultural Museum, which contains complementary parts, as well as the Maysan Museum, and work is underway on the Mosul Museum collection. I also worked as a project coordinator between the SBAH and heritage organisations such as the Safina Projects. I have held several workshops and training courses to develop the skills of museum workers, some of which were in cooperation with the Italian Embassy at the Italian Center in Baghdad in addition to the Basra Cultural Museum as the opening of the maintenance laboratory, and others in the ancient city of Babylon with the establishment of a workshop near the Lion of Babylon.

Nawar Ihsan at The British Museum

Tell us more about your project.

My project on museums in general and the Iraqi Museum in particular is titled: Iraq Museum Marketing through the Application of Sustainable Development Goals. My research aims to develop the reality of museums in Iraq in proportion to the significance of the civilisation they contain and to activate their social and educational role to achieve sustainability in heritage, learning, and cultural tourism. The research methodology was a comparison between the Iraqi Museum and museums in the United Kingdom to identify strengths and weaknesses. The research was hosted by Dr. Paul Collins, Keeper of the Middle East, in the British Museum. The research involved identifying the methods and policies followed by museums, such as the methods of display, lighting, designs, visitor movement, services provided by the museum, and its educational and social role. During my stay in the UK, I visited more than 26 museums in London and other cities, and also met with a number of department directors at the British Museum. This enabled me to form a broad and comprehensive impression of museum management in the UK.

How was your Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK?

The Nahrein Network and the British Institute for the Study of Iraq provided me with wonderful experiences, allowing me to benefit from the expertise of leading institutions. As the subject of the research revolves around museums, and the United Kingdom contains a large number of diverse museums, the opportunity to host me at the British Museum was an honour for me, as it is the museum that attracts most visitors. It is also a great opportunity to get to know experts and innovators and build knowledge in this field of work. It is certain that getting to know the cities and lifestyles in the United Kingdom had a beautiful impact on civilizational and cultural diversity.

Nawar Ihsan at UCL

What was the highlight of your trip?

I was able to achieve a lot within the short and quick visiting scholarship in London, including my lecture titled “Iraqi Heritage Between Recovery and Preservation” at UCL in collaboration with the Iraqi Embassy, attended by the Cultural Attaché and important figures from the Iraqi community in the UK. My presentation discussed the state of heritage in Iraq, its divisions, causes of loss, and how to protect it, while highlighting the role of the Iraqi Museum in preserving antiquities.

In addition, I had the great opportunity to attend a conference on social attraction in the city of Bristol, as its topic is considered an important part of the research that I am conducting. Another highlight was my trip to Oxford, hosted by Dr. Paul Collins, to see the Ashmolean Museum, which is considered the world’s first university museum and was distinguished by modern display methods and a great collection in the Mesopotamian Civilization section. I also visited Cambridge and experienced the Fitzwilliam Museum.

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

Travelling enables us to acquire and experience new cultures, let alone if it is specifically for conducting research in a country that is known for sustaining its culture and history. Through this scholarship, I was able to conduct field visits to several museums in London and other cities in the UK, which definitely helped me expand my knowledge and skills in a wide area of museum management. Using historical buildings in museums while intertwining modern interior styles was fascinating, and I hope to incorporate these contemporary methods into my research and my work back in Iraq.

Through participant observation at different museums, I learned a lot about the methods of dealing with visitors, and I understood the importance of museum layout and visitor movement within galleries. This is an extremely important matter for increasing visitor engagement and experience.

We talk to Dr Abdulkareem Yaseen Ahmed, Lecturer in Linguistics at Diyala University. Dr Abdulkareem held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at University of Leicester. Dr Abdulkareem’s project is titled Christian Cultural Heritage in Mosul and is under the supervision of Dr Selena Wisnom.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

Dr Abdulkareem Yaseen with Professor Eleanor Robson at UCL

My name is Abdulkareem Yaseen, a lecturer at University of Diyala. My academic journey took me to the United Kingdom, where I achieved an MA from the University of York and subsequently completed my PhD at Newcastle University in 2018. Recently, I have successfully concluded a Nahrein Network/BISI-funded project in my role as a co-investigator, centered on the intricate process of identity reconstruction within the war-torn region of Karma, situated in Anbar, to the west of Iraq. This project nicely aligned with my research background, as I have previously engaged with the culturally rich community of Mosul.

What is your project about?

Well, my current project has brought me to the University of Leicester, where I’ve embarked on a mission dedicated to the preservation of the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community. This project is kindly supported by the Nahrein Network, based at University College London, as well as The British Institute for the Study of Iraq. Within the framework of this project, I have delved deeply into the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community and the considerable challenges it confronts. My research findings underscore the pivotal role played by oral traditions and dialects within the cultural heritage of this community. Moreover, I’ve illuminated how conflicts and socio-political turmoil have led to the decline of certain aspects of this intangible cultural heritage. Nevertheless, this project offers a ray of hope by outlining a comprehensive approach aimed at safeguarding and promoting the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community.

How was your stay in the UK?

In fact, my 8-week stay in Leicester has opened doors to new research possibilities and strengthened my commitment to safeguarding the cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community and beyond. Everyone at the Nahrein Network as well as the host institution (University of Leicester) has played a pivotal role in ensuring my stay was productive and enjoyable. I can’t thank them enough for what they did for me.

Have you had promising conversations or collaborations with colleagues?

During my stay in Leicester, the scholarship has undeniably broadened my horizons in multiple dimensions. Firstly, it has exposed me to a diverse community of researchers with a wide array of research interests. Interacting with these scholars has provided me with fresh perspectives and invaluable insights into various aspects of heritage preservation and cultural studies. These interactions have not only expanded my academic horizons but have also enriched my personal growth. Moreover, the Department of Archaeology has been a hub of expertise in heritage-related fields. Working closely with specialists from different research backgrounds related to heritage has given me an up-close look at their methodologies and approaches to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural assets. This exposure has deepened my understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities involved in safeguarding cultural heritage. The vibrant academic environment at the University of Leicester has allowed me to engage in numerous meetings and gatherings where ideas and experiences were freely exchanged. So, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to engage with such fantastic individuals.

How do you plan to further your research once you’re back in Iraq?

Looking ahead, my ambitions extend beyond the boundaries of my initial project. I intend to expand the scope of my research to encompass a broader array of communities of interest. In particular, I envision a new chapter in this project that will delve into the rich history and heritage of the Jewish communities in northern Iraq. By doing so, I aim to create a more comprehensive and inclusive portrayal of Iraq’s cultural heritage landscape, shedding light on the multifaceted tapestry of traditions, narratives, and legacies that have shaped this region over centuries. This will not only deepen our understanding of Mosul’s Christian community but also contribute to a more holistic appreciation of the diverse cultural heritage that defines Iraq.

Dr Abdulkareem at UCL’s Japanese Garden Pavilion

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

Upon my return, I am wholeheartedly committed to forging enduring collaborations with the Christian community of Mosul, building upon the invaluable connections I’ve cultivated with the local residents while conducting my project. These relationships have not only enriched my understanding of their cultural heritage but have also demonstrated the genuine commitment of the community to preserving its traditions.

We talk to Dr Hamed H. Samir, Head of Architecture Department, Collage of Engineering, University of Basrah. Dr Hamed held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at University of Loughborough. Dr Hamed’s project is titled Reviving the Local Identity of the City of Basrah and is under the supervision of Dr Sura al-Maiyah.

Tell us about more about your project.

Dr Hamed with “Auto-Icon” of philosopher and reformer, Jeremy Bentham at UCL

Built heritage conservation is essential in post-war areas. In recent years, Iraqi traditional architecture has been deeply affected by several wars, challenging the cultural memory of local people.

My research considers Basra as a pilot case study. Basra is classified as a city rich in cultural heritage. In particular, the canals are a unique feature of the city. Within Iraq, Basra holds the nickname of “Venice of the East”, surrounded by its distinctive architectural identity. Basra today faces urban decay and is losing its architectural heritage and identity in a severe way.

A significant problem is the continuous altering of traditional architecture. The value of Basra’s built environment and its architectural heritage is absent from the local residents. This has contributed to losing countless historical buildings and the unique Basra charm.

The aim of my research is to explore how the legacy of Basra’s past can be transmitted to future generations. My project focuses on digitally documenting the tangible and intangible heritage of Basra. I am hoping to create a digital library to revive the collective memory of residents and to raise awareness regarding the value of Basra’s heritage.

How was your stay in the UK? Did you have promising conversations with colleagues?

It was an amazing experience to be in the UK. I got the chance to meet and work with many colleagues working in similar projects from across the world. In addition, I had the opportunity to visit labs and got experience on the newest cutting-edge tools for heritage documentation.

The colleagues are friendly and very helpful, they were always available to listen and discuss my project and constantly giving feedback. I believe that all this will no doubt lead to developing a solid project and reducing the challenges and barriers.

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

As a researcher, the scholarship in the UK has given me the opportunity to learn the newest technology and tools, such as laser scanning and photogrammetry. In addition, this scholarship has improved my skills regarding the new heritage documenting tools and how to use it. This is very necessary to my project. Moreover, in order to set a plan to create the digital library for Basra city heritage, the interaction with the experts in this field is much required, and this was achieved during my stay in the host university as well as other institutions in UK.

How do you plan to further your research once you are back in Iraq?

The future plan for me after finishing my scholarship and returning to Iraq will focus on creating a digital library for the heritage of Basra city. I believe this library will enhance the knowledge of young architects. In addition, I hope this will raise the awareness of the local people and revive the collective memory of Basra’s heritage and traditional architecture particularly the younger generations.

You can watch Dr Hamed’s seminar titled, Safeguarding the diversity of cultural heritage in Basrah on our YouTube page.

We talk to Mabast A. Muhammad Amin, lecturer at the History department at the University of Garmian, Iraq. Mabast held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at University of Liverpool. Mabast’s project is titled Ancient Civilisations Archaeology and is under the supervision of Professor Douglas Baird and Dr Eleni Asouti.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

My name is Mabast Ali Muhammad Amin. I have an M.A. in archaeology at the University of Leicester. I am a full-time lecturer at the History department, University of Garmian in Iraq.

What is your project about?

During my stay in the UK, I worked on a research project entitled: Preserving prehistoric sites in Iraqi Kurdistan.

The project surveyed the range of environmental and human actions that have impacted a series of case study early prehistoric sites in Iraqi Kurdistan. The aim is to understand the nature of those impacts and the types of degradation they cause in order to develop a hierarchical framework assessing degrees of damage. This assessment resulted in a series of mitigation scenarios for these specific case studies and early prehistoric sites in Iraqi Kurdistan in general, focusing on some of the most damaging factors.

In terms of those factors relating to human agency, or where the human agency can influence environmental factors, the project aimed to identify the role of local communities. It will explore local community awareness of these early prehistoric sites and the extent to which types of awareness raising may have positive impacts on site preservation.

What was the main benefit of your scholarship?

My scholarship was helpful in updating my ideas and perspectives, where I learned about new methods and approaches to my work. I was also able to produce important research about the challenges in the protection and promotion of heritage sites in the region. My research assesses environmental and human threats to the preservation of early prehistoric sites (Palaeolithic and Neolithic) in Iraqi Kurdistan. I developed mechanisms that will aid their preservation, such as dialogue with local communities. I also engaged and collaborated with several heritage organizations and professionals in the UK.

Professor Eleanor Robson and Mabast Amin at UCL

What are your plans for your project once you’re back in Iraq?

Since I returned to the Kurdistan region, I presented two seminars to academics and professionals at the University of Garmian and Garmian Museum.

I have also organised a group of archaeologists and museum professionals, and we are planning to establish a non-governmental organisation in Garmian. We aim to bring awareness and educate local community about the value of archaeological heritage sites, through organising seminars, workshops and arranging festivals and heritage activities in schools, universities and public places.

I have also become a member of an archaeological team from the University of Liverpool, directed by Professor Douglas Baird and Professor Asouti to work in a Palaeolithic cave site. Another great example of how the Visiting Scholarship has created relationships and opportunities for me.

We talk to Shazad Jaseem Tofiq, Architect at the Sulaimani Directorate of Antiquities. Shazad held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at The British Museum. Shazad’s project is titled Contemporary Approaches to Museum Design and is under the supervision of Dr Paul Collins.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

My name is Shazad Jaseem Tofiq and I’m an architect at the Sulaimani Antiquities Directorate. I’ve been working there since December 2007. My work primarily involves the preservation of historic houses and gallery design development at the Sulaimani Museum.

Over the years, I’ve been involved in several preservation projects where I’ve utilized my skills and expertise to conserve historic buildings. It’s always a challenging task because each building has its unique set of problems. However, it’s also rewarding when we manage to restore a building to its former glory.

At the Sulaimani Museum, I’ve also been involved in designing galleries and exhibits. As an architect, I’m able to utilize my knowledge of spatial design to create visually appealing and functional spaces.

Shazad Tofiq and Dr Paul Collins at The British Museum

Tell us more about your project and the main benefits of the Visiting Scholarship?

My project’s main focus was to observe and analyze the spatial design and configuration of the collections and exhibits at different UK museums. I received a two-month Nahrein Network – BISI Scholarship at the British Museum, which provided me with an opportunity to learn from their well-developed museum exhibits and design. Through this scholarship, I gained valuable insights into the spatial design components, collection configuration, and architectural elements of exhibits. I had the opportunity to visit over 22 museums across the UK.

I also undertook several semi-structured interviews with related professionals to explore the design process approach and rationale of those exhibits as well as the museum. It was an enriching experience that has allowed me to bring back new ideas and knowledge to my work at the Sulaimani Antiquities Directorate.

What are your plans for your project once you’re back in Iraq?

After completing my scholarship at the British Museum, I am now planning to take my learnings and apply them to my work at the Sulaimani Antiquities Directory. I believe that the knowledge and insights I gained during my time in the UK can be useful in improving our museum exhibits and preservation projects.

I plan to share my learnings by writing a research paper that summarizes my findings and observations. This paper will detail my analysis of the spatial design components and configuration of the collection and architectural elements of the exhibit at the British Museum. It will also provide insight into the design process approach and rationale of those exhibits.

Moreover, I am also planning to organize two workshops for related museum professionals, including architects, archaeologists, interior designers, educators, and other relevant experts. These workshops will provide a platform for us to discuss and exchange ideas on how to apply my learnings to our respective fields. By doing so, we can collaborate and contribute to the improvement of museum exhibits and preservation projects in our region.

We talk to Dr Sadiq Khalil Abid PhD in Architecture (University of Sheffield) and former Consultant in the Prime Minister’s office. Dr Sadiq is a returning scholar who came to finish the second phase of his scholarship in February 2023. He held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at The National Archive titled Iraqi Heritage under the British Mandate under the supervision of Dr Juliette Desplat.

What were the main benefits of your scholarship?

My goal is to build effective advocacy through case studies of endangered Iraqi Heritage. During my stay in the UK, I was able to discuss with various professionals from different backgrounds how to better raise awareness about Iraqi Heritage. The Nahrein Network has been a great support not only to me, but to many Iraqi scholars that are collectively working towards the sustainable development of Iraqi history and heritage.

Dr Sadiq Khalil with Jeremy Bentham, philosopher and reformer whose educational ideas influenced the founding and development of UCL

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

My main research is focusing on the relationship between politics and cultural heritage with particular reference to Baghdad and Najaf. I’m keen on dealing with some specific case studies such as Al-Tahrir Square, the Royal Cemetery, and al-Rashid street in Baghdad, in addition to the Najaf old town. It can be stated that Iraq has a number of sites, many are in danger of permanent deterioration due to muddled conservation practices. This research will examine the current state of Iraqi conservation practices, with a particular focus on the extent to which they have affected the existing historical fabric. My scholarship with The National Archives has allowed me to collect a vast amount of useful primary sources and maps from the archives and I expect to achieve some outcomes soon.

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

After returning to Iraq, I’m planing to continue searching and delivering articles with collaboration with Nahrein Network. Moreover, I’m planning to set out some online lectures and workshops under Nahrein Network umbrella focusing on the importance of the Network scholarships and projects tailored to Iraqi researchers, and key players dealing with cultural challenges. These webinars can help researchers to understand the impact of the Network and share our knowledge and experiences with others. Raising researchers and stakeholders awareness and understanding how to effectively deal with cultural heritage is important to protect Iraqi heritage on the ground.

Listen to Dr Sadiq talk about his experience in this short video

Sadiq Khalil at The National Archives in London

We talk to Dr Mohammed Jasim Aal-Hajiahmed, from Central Library – University of Mosul. Returning scholar who came to finish the second phase of his scholarship in October 2022. He held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at The British Library.

What were the main things you learnt from your Visiting Scholarship?

Throughout the two phases of my scholarship, I gained knowledge in many aspects of my field, specifically:

• I learned about setting up a digitization unit in the library and the process of restoring the physical and electronic library collections. I also acquired the know-how for digitizing the manuscripts and fragile materials.
• I was introduced to new electronic library systems that can be applied during cataloguing, borrowing, interlibrary loan, etc.
• I understood the importance of providing training courses for library staff in order to continuously develop skills.
• I recognized the value of networking with other librarians and exchange of knowledge.

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in your home country?

This scholarship helped me in my work a lot because I was able to network with many friends at various great UK institutions such as the British Library, Oxford University, Cambridge University, UCL Library, etc. This networking will help us resolve any issues we could face during the process of restoring Mosul Library Collections as we are starting this process from scratch.

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

The main highlight of this scholarship was discussing the possibility of forming a consultancy board that could meet twice a year to follow up the restoration of Mosul University Library Collections. This board consists of directors and librarians from different UK libraries that can provide consultancy and solutions for the issues that may be raised during the process of rebuilding Mosul Library Collections. Listen to Dr Mohammed talk about his future plans in this short video

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

I have kept in touch with my contacts in UK to make sure that the process of restoring the library collections goes smoothly and to get the required feedback if needed. Moreover, I look forward to applying what I have learned from my scholarship to make Mosul University Library one of the best academic institutions that can provide the best services for its users.