Research on SDG 8


Introduction

Research at Baku State University actively contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) by exploring strategies that promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work opportunities. Scholars at BSU examine the dynamics of Azerbaijan’s labor market, workforce development, and the role of innovation and human capital in driving economic resilience. Studies highlight pressing issues such as youth employment, gender gaps in the workforce, rural–urban disparities, and the impact of globalization on local economies.

Interdisciplinary research also focuses on the intersection of economic growth with sustainability and technological transformation, emphasizing the importance of digitalization, entrepreneurship, and diversification beyond traditional sectors such as oil and gas. Collaborations with international partners further expand BSU’s role in addressing structural labor market challenges, aligning educational outcomes with industry needs, and fostering policy recommendations for inclusive growth.

Through this body of work, BSU supports Azerbaijan’s commitment to achieving SDG 8 by promoting stronger links between higher education, business, and government while ensuring that economic progress is coupled with social equity and sustainability.

For all SDGs related articles please visit: https://www.scopus.com/pages/organization/60071969#tab=sdgs


1. Authors: Teymurova V.E., Abdullayeva S., Dunyamaliyeva V.R., Muradova K., Bayramli M.
Focus: Human capital challenges in Azerbaijan (2000–2024), with emphasis on skilled labour shortages and ageing population.
Methods: Surveys in rural and urban regions measuring workforce availability and demographic impacts.
Findings: 30% of rural and 35% of urban respondents report difficulty finding qualified workers; ageing intensifies labour market strain.
Recommendation: Requires coordinated efforts between government, business, and education sectors to address demographic and workforce challenges.
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2. Authors: Khan A., Liu D., Zheng J., Ibrahimova U.F., Ahmad I.
Focus: Melatonin pre-treatment for cadmium (Cd) stress tolerance in cotton seedlings.
Methods: Growth experiments under Cd stress; physiological and gene expression analyses.
Findings: Melatonin improved root growth, nutrient uptake, antioxidant activity, hormone balance, and photosynthesis; upregulated key transcription factors.
Recommendation: Melatonin pre-treatment could mitigate Cd toxicity and enhance crop productivity in contaminated soils.
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3. Authors: Karim M.R., Sultana S., Altaf U.N.M., Islam M.R., Rahman F., +7.
Focus: Triple-defense strategy (KNO₃, H₂O₂, CaCl₂) to enhance salt stress tolerance in tomato plants.
Methods: Combined vs. individual applications under 100 mM NaCl stress.
Findings: Combined treatment significantly improved plant growth, nutrient uptake, and antioxidant defense compared to individual treatments.
Recommendation: Offers a promising integrated solution for improving crop resilience to salinity.
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4. Authors: Hasano R.I., Rustamov T., Alibeyli A., Huseynova E., Safarli A.
Focus: Military spending and economic growth in Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia (1996–2022).
Methods: Econometric analysis of military expenditure and GDP per capita.
Findings: Azerbaijan shows two-way causality between military spending and GDP; in Armenia and Georgia, growth drives defense spending.
Recommendation: Highlights ethical and geopolitical implications for policymaking in national security and regional stability.
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5. Authors: Teymurova V.E., Abdullayeva S., Muradova K., Aslanova M.M., Bayramli M.
Focus: Environmental challenges and their economic impact in Azerbaijan.
Methods: Analysis of economic-environmental linkages and role of education/innovation.
Findings: Education, green technology adoption, and international cooperation are crucial for sustainable growth.
Recommendation: Strengthening human capital is essential to mitigate environmental risks and enhance competitiveness.
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6. Authors: Li J., Mirzayeva A., Pak E., Akhundova A.H.G., Panjieva N.
Focus: Sustainable tourism’s role in preserving and transforming cultural landscapes.
Methods: Literature review (2017–2024) and comparative case studies (Poland, Georgia, Indonesia).
Findings: Europe shows broader adoption; developing countries face structural barriers (funding, policies, awareness).
Recommendation: Government support and community engagement are essential for success in sustainable tourism.
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7. Authors: Mukhametov A.E., Moreva E.L., Bayramli M., Smirnov A.V., Egorov I.
Focus: SMART diversification strategy for Arabian Peninsula economies.
Methods: Strategic framework analysis in context of global market volatility.
Findings: Digital technologies, renewables, and tourism are key to reducing oil dependency.
Recommendation: Strengthen resilience and political stability to support long-term diversification.
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8. Authors: Najafov B.A., Nasirov S.N.
Focus: Solar-hydrogen energy through plasma-deposited thin-film solar cells.
Methods: Study of a−Si1−xCx:H, a−C:H, and nc-C:H bilayer cells with p-i-n structures.
Findings: Highest efficiency 9.6% with nc-C:H-based cells; radiation during production improved film quality, while post-production radiation harmed stability.
Recommendation: Nc-C:H films are most stable, offering potential for renewable energy applications.
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9. Authors: Mustafayeva G.A., Mammadova S.Y., Balajayeva T.P.
Focus: Climate-resilient infrastructure aligned with COP-29 goals.
Methods: Case studies and policy analysis of sustainable infrastructure.
Findings: Climate-resilient infrastructure delivers cost savings, public health benefits, and investor confidence.
Recommendation: Requires coordinated policymaker and industry collaboration for sustainable growth.
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10. Authors: Huseynova G., Valiyeva A., Tahmezli E., Surkhayli S., Tahmezli M.
Focus: Water quality and climate change monitoring in Guba-Khachmaz (Azerbaijan).
Methods: GIS and multivariate analysis with tools like GEE.
Findings: Improved forecasting and management of water resources under climate stress.
Recommendation: GIS-based monitoring supports better environmental planning and sustainable water management.
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