Administrative Divisions Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications
Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, has published a scientific research paper entitled “Proactive Deep Q-Learning Approach for Anomaly Detection in IoT IDSs,” focusing on the application of artificial intelligence and deep reinforcement learning techniques to develop proactive systems for detecting anomalies and cyberattacks in Internet of Things (IoT) networks. The research was published in the Journal of Intelligent Informatics, Networking, and Cybersecurity (JIINC), Volume 2, Issue 2, 2026, in collaboration with researcher Hawraa A. Habeeb from the Department of Software, College of Information Technology, University of Babylon. Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea is affiliated with the Intelligent Medical System Department, College of Science, Al-Mustaqbal University, as well as the Department of Information Networks, College of Information Technology, University of Babylon. The study addressed the growing challenges faced by conventional Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) in handling the massive and diverse data streams generated by the rapid expansion of IoT devices, particularly their limited ability to analyze network traffic in real time and proactively identify unknown attack patterns. The researchers proposed a security framework based on Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) through the integration of a dynamically adaptive Deep Q-Network (DQN) agent capable of responding to changing network traffic patterns. The proposed approach enables real-time decisions regarding network packets, including whether to block or allow traffic, through an optimized reward function aligned with the principles of Zero-Trust Architecture. The research employed the benchmark CICIoT2023 dataset, which underwent a comprehensive data preparation process involving feature selection and dimensionality reduction using entropy, in addition to the Synthetic Minority Over-Sampling Technique (SMOTE) to address class imbalance before the model training and testing phases. The experimental results demonstrated the high efficiency of the proposed framework, achieving an accuracy of 98.74%, precision of 99.80%, recall of 98.93%, and an F1-score of 99.37%. These results demonstrated that the proposed methodology outperformed several state-of-the-art machine learning approaches reported in previous studies in the field. The publication reflects the research-oriented direction of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University in advancing specialized research in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity and applying deep learning and reinforcement learning techniques to address contemporary technological challenges, particularly those related to securing IoT networks and digital infrastructures. The publication also represents a valuable addition to the scientific output of Al-Mustaqbal University and highlights the growing contribution of its researchers to emerging technological and research fields. It further supports the University’s commitment to advancing scientific research, innovation, digital transformation, and the practical application of artificial intelligence in support of sustainable technological development. Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Iraqi Private Universities
Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, was honored by the Babil Directorate of Youth and Sports – Scientific Care Forum in recognition of his valuable scientific contribution to the seminar entitled “From Human Intelligence to Artificial Intelligence: Where Do Cognitive Abilities Stand?”, held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in the presence of the Forum’s Director and members of its staff. The honoring recognized Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea’s distinguished efforts in promoting scientific and community awareness and highlighting the rapid developments in artificial intelligence, as well as his contribution to addressing cognitive issues related to the relationship between human intelligence and artificial intelligence and the transformations taking place in human intellectual and cognitive capabilities. The Scientific Care Forum presented Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his valuable efforts and participation in the seminar, wishing him continued success and achievement. The certificate was signed by Mr. Hussein Al-Marai, Director of the Scientific Care Forum, and Mr. Nail Talib Al-Sarhan, Director of the Babil Directorate of Youth and Sports. This honoring reflects the significant scientific role of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University in strengthening communication with community institutions and contributing to the promotion of scientific and digital awareness, particularly regarding artificial intelligence, its applications, and its growing impact across various fields. The initiative is also in line with Al-Mustaqbal University’s commitment to supporting knowledge, innovation, and community engagement, while strengthening its scientific presence in contemporary technological and cognitive issues. Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Iraqi Private Universities
The President of Al-Mustaqbal University, Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, chaired a meeting of the university’s scientific committees and research centers on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the University Presidency, in the presence of the Scientific Assistant, Asst. Prof. Dr. Abbas Al-Bawi, the Scientific Supervisor, Prof. Dr. Muzaffar Al-Zuhairi, and directors of the university’s scientific units and research centers, including Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications. The meeting discussed the scientific and research achievements accomplished during the summer vacation, in addition to the programs and plans prepared for the upcoming academic year. It also reviewed the progress achieved in the approved plans, identified completed and remaining activities, and addressed the necessary steps for preparing a comprehensive summary to be submitted to the University Council. During the meeting, directors of the scientific units and research centers presented reports highlighting their major achievements, activities, projects, and research initiatives, along with their future programs and priorities aimed at advancing the University’s scientific and research performance. In this context, Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manea presented an overview of the key achievements of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications, highlighting the scientific and research activities implemented by the Center, the progress made in accordance with its strategic plans, and its upcoming programs and initiatives. These efforts reflect the University’s commitment to supporting scientific research and promoting the use of artificial intelligence technologies in academic and community fields. During the meeting, the University President emphasized the importance of continuing to implement scientific and research plans according to the specified timelines, while maintaining continuous follow-up on ongoing programs and activities. He also stressed the need to strengthen institutional performance and further enhance Al-Mustaqbal University’s scientific and research standing through integrated efforts among its scientific units and research centers. The meeting reflects Al-Mustaqbal University’s ongoing commitment to monitoring and developing its scientific and research activities, ensuring the readiness of its centers and academic units for the upcoming academic year, and strengthening an environment that supports research, innovation, and academic excellence. Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Iraqi Private Universities
In a distinguished scientific achievement reflecting Al-Mustaqbal University's commitment to supporting innovation and scientific research, Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Mana'a, Director of Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications, supervised the "Medical Software Developers" team participating in the National University Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Competition (NURAI 2026). The innovative project, titled: "Predictive System for Diabetes and Heart Diseases Using Explainable AI (XAI)" achieved a "Very Good" rating in the Medical Track by the Ministry's judging panel. In recognition of the outstanding efforts made by Dr. Mahdi Abadi Mana'a in supporting and supervising the students, as well as his active contribution to developing this smart project aimed at predicting diabetes and heart diseases using Explainable AI, he was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Dr. Haider Abed Dahad. The participating student team included Mohammad Basim Majdi, Subhi Anwar, and Hassanein Ne'ma, who delivered an impressive performance showcasing Iraqi student talent in national scientific forums. This participation comes under the auspices of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Al-Mustaqbal University (one of the Gold Sponsors of the championship), reinforcing the role of the university and the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications in empowering youth and advancing modern technologies to serve society. Al-Mustaqbal University — Ranked First among Private Universities in Iraq.
Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications continues to play an active role in supporting specialized training initiatives and promoting technological knowledge. As part of these efforts, Professor Dr. Mahdi Ebady Manaa, Director of the Center, contributed to delivering a specialized training course entitled "Cybersecurity Fundamentals Using Wireshark and Splunk." The course was organized by the Continuing Education Center under the supervision of Mr. Qusay Munir Thiab and was conducted over three days, with the participation of 11 trainees, including university staff, students, and participants from various sectors. During the course, Professor Dr. Mahdi Ebady Manaa focused on strengthening participants' understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals, introducing practical techniques for network traffic analysis using Wireshark, and demonstrating the use of Splunk for security data analysis and event management. The training aimed to enhance participants' technical competencies and equip them with the skills required to address contemporary cybersecurity challenges. This contribution reflects Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications' ongoing commitment to supporting professional development, advancing digital capabilities, and promoting cybersecurity awareness in line with the latest technological developments and digital transformation initiatives.
Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Jabbar, a faculty member at the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, has achieved a notable research milestone, demonstrating her scientific contributions to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as recognized by Scopus Impact indicators. According to Scopus, Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Jabbar's research publications have made measurable contributions to several Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting the impact of her work in addressing global challenges related to sustainable energy, environmental protection, innovation, and resource management. Her research has been associated with the following SDGs: SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (1 publication) SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (11 publications) SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth (2 publications) SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (5 publications) SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (2 publications) SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (3 publications) SDG 13: Climate Action (5 publications) SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (1 publication) SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals These achievements highlight the quality and impact of Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Jabbar's research, particularly in the fields of sustainable energy, environmental sustainability, chemical engineering, and innovative technologies that support global sustainable development. This accomplishment also reflects the commitment of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University to promoting high-impact scientific research and fostering innovation that addresses real-world challenges. It further strengthens the university's international academic profile and its commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through impactful research. Congratulations to Lecturer Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Jabbar on this distinguished achievement, with our sincere wishes for her continued success and excellence in scientific research and academic innovation.
In a new scientific achievement that reflects the research excellence of Al-Mustaqbal University, Professor Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manaa, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications, in collaboration with Ammar Abdulhadi Abdullah, has published a book chapter entitled: "A Hybrid MADRL Model for Task Scheduling in 5G Cloud Radio Access Networks." The chapter appears in the proceedings of the Third International Conference on Innovations of Intelligent Informatics, Networking, and Cybersecurity (3INC 2025), published by Springer Nature as part of the prestigious Communications in Computer and Information Science (CCIS), Volume 2960 book series. The chapter presents a hybrid Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning (MADRL) model for task scheduling in 5G Cloud Radio Access Networks (C-RAN). The proposed approach aims to optimize computational resource allocation, reduce latency, and improve the performance of next-generation communication systems supporting smart cities, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other intelligent applications. This work is among only 15 full papers selected through a rigorous peer-review process from 58 submitted manuscripts for the 3INC 2025 conference, held in Babylon, Iraq, on December 15–16, 2025, highlighting the quality and significance of the research. This accomplishment reflects Professor Dr. Mahdi Abadi Manaa's distinguished research contributions and further strengthens Al-Mustaqbal University's international academic reputation. It also demonstrates the vital role of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications in advancing innovative research in artificial intelligence, intelligent networking, and next-generation communication technologies.
The academic community witnessed an outstanding scientific representation for the University of Al-Mustaqbal, as Prof. Dr. Mahdi Abadi Mane’, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications, was selected as a member of the Scientific Committee for the International Conference on Networks and Cybersecurity. The prestigious conference was hosted by the University of Babylon - College of Information Technology, under the official sponsorship and auspices of Springer, the world-renowned scientific publishing institution. The selection of Dr. Mahdi Abadi Mane’ to this esteemed committee reflects his high academic standing and extensive expertise in the fields of information technology and artificial intelligence, as well as the pivotal role of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for AI Applications in keeping pace with modern technological advancements. The committee's responsibilities included evaluating the participating research papers and studies to ensure their scientific rigor in accordance with the international standards accredited by Springer. For its part, the administration of the University of Al-Mustaqbal expressed its immense pride in this representation. This achievement aligns with the university’s vision to build bridges of scientific cooperation with deeply-rooted universities like the University of Babylon, and to enhance the presence of its researchers and scholars in prestigious international forums that contribute to the development of the cybersecurity sector and smart systems in Iraq and the region. It is worth noting that the University of Al-Mustaqbal ranks first among private universities in Iraq.