On 31 August 2025, the “Youth for Sustainable Development Goals: Second Youth Networking Forum” began with an opening ceremony at the “INNOLAND” Incubation and Acceleration Center. The event commenced with the National Anthem of Azerbaijan and a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs.

The forum aimed to promote youth networking, innovation, and knowledge exchange on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within the framework of the event, opening speeches, panel discussions, and team-building activities were organized. Participants, including representatives of government institutions and innovation centers, came together to explore new opportunities for cooperation.

At the opening panel, project leader Nigar Isgandarova spoke about the essence of the event and the upcoming panel discussions. Other speakers included Rustam Hasanov, Advisor to the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources; Seyfur Hajimuradov, representative of the Youth Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Vurghun Hajiyev, Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency; Nigar Khidirova, representative of the Agrarian Innovation Center; Nicat Amiraslanov, Director of “INNOLAND” Incubation and Acceleration Center; and Etibar Khidirov, Head of the Supportive Community Center and expert of the “SDG Youth Community” initiative group.

The first panel discussion was held on the topic “Digital Development Agenda: SDGs in the Era of Innovation,” moderated by PhD candidate of Bahçeşehir University, Mirlazim Dadashov. Panelists included Samir Gadirov, Community Leader at SABAH.HUB Innovation Center; Nurla Emrahov, Lecturer at the Faculty of Biology of Baku State University; Tural Rahimov, Digital Media Planner at Universal McCann Azerbaijan; and Vurghun Hajiyev, Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency. Discussions focused on the impact of digital development on the SDGs. The BSU representative addressed questions on the challenges and solutions in modern molecular biology and biotechnology, the needs and measures in this field in Azerbaijan, BSU’s activities, and future perspectives.

Team-building activities were also organized, and during networking breaks, participants discussed potential cooperation opportunities with different organizations.

The event concluded with an award ceremony and group photos.

The outcomes of the forum and the active participation of young people demonstrated that youth collaboration and innovative approaches play a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and pave the way for future projects and partnerships.

SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals