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Global partnerships and collaborations bolster Baku State University’s (BSU) international reputation and create a world-class learning environment for its students and researchers, says the university’s rector, Elchin Babayev.

Established in 1919, BSU is the oldest and largest higher education institution in Azerbaijan. As a leading institution in the region, internationalisation and academic excellence are at the heart of the university’s mission.

“BSU’s integrated approach to education ensures that its academic programmes meet the highest international standards and remain globally competitive,” says Babayev. This approach is “anchored in rigorous national and international accreditation, supported by cutting-edge laboratories and learning spaces, strengthened by industry partnerships and amplified by academic collaborations”, he adds.

Global partnerships are integral to BSU’s strategy. It has collaborated with more than 120 universities worldwide, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and dual degree programmes. “These initiatives guarantee that the university remains aligned with global standards,” Babayev says.

The university currently offers several dual degree programmes, including undergraduate studies in philology with Anhui University in China, master’s programmes in biotechnology with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel, an MBA programme with the University of Business and International Studies in Switzerland, and a degree in petroleum chemistry with Satbayev University in Kazakhstan. 

BSU is part of several international networks and professional associations, which strengthen its global presence and benchmark its education and research offerings internationally. “This strengthens BSU’s international competitiveness,” says Babayev. “These initiatives enhance the quality of education, provide exposure to global best practice and contribute to the development of highly qualified specialists.” 

The university has become a hub for international students and researchers in the region. “BSU attracts students from more than 30 countries, fostering a diverse and multicultural learning environment that enriches students’ educational experience and the university’s global reputation,” he says.

The university runs several initiatives to promote a diverse academic environment and support its international students and faculty. “BSU provides dedicated support services, including assistance with admissions, visa procedures, accommodation and orientation programmes to help international students integrate smoothly into campus life,” Babayev says.

For faculty, BSU encourages professional development through research collaborations, participation in international conferences and teaching opportunities in its dual degree programmes. “These efforts ensure that international students and faculty not only receive academic support but also become active participants in the university’s global learning community, enhancing BSU’s international profile and competitiveness,” Babayev says.

The university prioritises international activities such as promoting student and faculty exchanges with partner universities abroad. It hosts the Confucius Institute, which was established in partnership with Anhui University to promote Chinese language and culture. 

Important tools in BSU’s strategy to entrench academic excellence and global competitiveness are data and participation in global rankings, says Babayev. “BSU uses advanced digital platforms and analytics tools to systematically track, benchmark and enhance its performance across the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and global ranking indicators.” 

“The university ensures that its performance improvements are data-driven, transparent and aligned with global best practice, reinforcing its position as a leading institution on the international stage,” he concludes.