In recent years, state programs have created broad opportunities for the intellectual development of young people and the acquisition of modern knowledge and skills. In particular, thanks to the “State Program on Education of Young People at Prestigious Foreign Higher Education Institutions for 2022–2028,” hundreds of Azerbaijani students have gained the chance to study at leading universities worldwide and embark on professional careers. These initiatives not only support individual development but also contribute significantly to promoting our national interests, enhancing Azerbaijan’s recognition in the international arena, and ensuring that the country is represented with dignity in prestigious scientific and cultural institutions.

Our interviewee this time is Natiq Hamedov, one of the scholarship holders of the 2022–2028 State Program. During the conversation, he not only spoke about his educational journey abroad but also shared his views on the role of education in life, the secrets of advancing in science, the importance of setting goals, and the value of perseverance.

Natiq Hamedov, born in Shabran (formerly Davachi) in 2000, received his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at Baku State University (2018–2022) and later pursued a master’s degree at the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University (2022–2024). Currently, he is continuing his doctoral studies in Chemistry at Istanbul University, focusing on the synthesis of chalcone compounds with potential applications in cancer treatment. As one of 19 doctoral scholarship holders of the State Program, he emphasizes that this opportunity has been a source of pride and motivation.

In the interview, Hamedov highlighted the comprehensive support provided by the State Program, including tuition fees, travel, living, and insurance expenses, enabling young people to explore new cultures, improve personal skills, and gain international experience. He also pointed out the importance of state youth policy, participation in scientific and intellectual competitions, and the role of consistent research and reading in personal and academic development.

He underlined that his scientific research could contribute not only to the development of medical chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry in Azerbaijan but also to raising the country’s visibility in the international scientific community. Furthermore, his personal example demonstrates to young people that determination, planning, and proper use of opportunities can lead to significant achievements.

Hamedov concluded by advising young people to remain purposeful, value continuous learning, and engage in both academic and social activities to prepare themselves for future careers and contribute to the development of the country’s scientific potential.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals