A conference titled “Preservation of Traditional Values and the Family Institution as an Important Factor in the Educational Process” was jointly organized by Baku State University (BSU) and the State Committee for Family, Women and Children’s Issues (SCFWCI) in honor of May 15 – International Day of Families.

Bahar Muradova, Chairperson of the State Committee, emphasized that the family institution is one of the main pillars of society not only in Azerbaijan but worldwide. She highlighted that integrating traditional family values into the educational environment and the mutual cooperation between family and education systems play a decisive role in the sustainable development of society. Muradova noted that the State Committee is taking significant steps to preserve family values in the country. Currently, under the directive of the Head of State, the Committee is developing a new “Family Concept,” which will serve not only as a strategic roadmap but also as a comprehensive document addressing all matters related to family values and national-spiritual ties. She stressed that the disruption of family values poses a direct threat to national security and interests. The Committee considers the joint efforts of educational institutions, public organizations, academic communities, and state bodies essential in this area. In this regard, Baku State University, as a flagship higher education institution, has great potential and can make a significant contribution to this process through close cooperation with the State Committee.

Muradova also noted that systematic work is being carried out with higher education institutions to improve mechanisms related to family values. She emphasized that platforms fostering joint discussions and open dialogue are the most effective means to address these issues.

Elchin Babayev, Rector of BSU, stated that the most valuable asset of any nation is its national-spiritual values that connect its past with the present and preserve its identity. He underscored the important role of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, led by First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, in this field. Babayev pointed out that the Foundation not only promotes the rich history and culture of the Azerbaijani people internationally but also carries out invaluable work in promoting national-spiritual values, traditions, and customs. He described these noble and benevolent efforts as a source of immense pride for all citizens and Azerbaijanis living abroad.

The rector highlighted that promoting and teaching national values in schools is an undeniable factor in shaping the national identity of students and fostering healthy social relationships. He recalled the statement made by the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, during the BSU centennial celebration, emphasizing the state policy regarding national-spiritual values: “Young people must be raised in a national spirit, patriotism, and based on traditional values. Such youth will confidently lead our country into the future. I believe that the vast majority of today’s youth meet these criteria — knowledgeable, educated, devoted to the homeland, patriotic, and open to the world. This is how Azerbaijan’s state independence should be strengthened.” Based on these principles, BSU currently pays special attention to promoting national-spiritual values. Regular events aimed at educating students on national-spiritual values are reflected in the university’s annual social activity plans.

Speakers including Zahid Oruc, Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee of the Milli Majlis (Parliament), Mehriban Valiyeva, Member of the Milli Majlis, Aqil Shirinov, Rector of the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology, Elnur Nasibov, Chairperson of the Board of the Education Development Fund, Vusal Goyushov, Executive Director of the Foundation for the Promotion of Moral Values, and Emilia Igidova, lecturer at BSU’s Department of Psychology, all stressed the importance of protecting and developing the family institution, strengthening national-spiritual values in society, and promoting these values among the younger generation. They noted that these matters have become a pressing requirement within the educational process.

The event concluded with the participants’ proposals and an interactive discussion on the topic.

SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions