Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

Baku State University Introduces an Expanded and Legally Aligned Maternity Policy to Support Women Employees, Students, and Strengthen Institutional Commitment to Gender Equality

Baku State University (BSU), one of the leading higher education institutions in Azerbaijan, has introduced an expanded and comprehensive Maternity Policy designed to support women employees and students, fully aligned with the Labour Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This policy marks a major step in BSU’s efforts to create a family-friendly, inclusive, and equitable working and learning environment for all. Baku State University recognizes the importance of shared parenting and the role of non-gestational parents in supporting childcare responsibilities. The university provides paternity leave in accordance with the Labour Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, allowing fathers or non-gestational parents to take time off to care for their newborn or recently adopted child. This policy helps ensure that women employees can continue their professional or academic duties while receiving support from their partners, promoting gender equality, work–life balance, and inclusive participation in childcare across the university community.

A Policy Grounded in National Legislation and International Good Practices

The BSU Maternity Policy is based on:

• Articles 125–132 of the Labour Code, covering maternity protection, safety, and legal guarantees;

• Article 127, defining maternity leave structure and duration;

• Article 128, ensuring job retention during maternity leave;

• Article 98, mandating workplace adjustments for pregnant employees;

• State Social Protection Fund regulations, guaranteeing financial support.

The policy is designed not only to comply with national law but to exceed standard requirements by offering additional institutional support modeled on leading global practices in higher education.

Support for Students: Accessible Childcare Facilities on Campus

BSU confirms that it provides accessible childcare facilities for student mothers, enabling them to continue their studies without interruption.

These facilities provide:

• A dedicated childcare room equipped for infants and toddlers;

• Care by trained staff during core class hours;

• A safe, hygienic, and monitored environment;

• Flexible hours aligned with student schedules;

• Priority access for recent mothers returning after maternity leave.

This service ensures that student mothers can attend lectures, participate in academic activities, and progress through their programs without additional childcare barriers.

Support for Employees: Childcare Facilities for Staff and Faculty

In addition to student services, BSU also provides childcare facilities that are accessible to staff and faculty members.
This demonstrates the university’s strong institutional commitment to supporting work–life balance across all levels of its academic community.

These childcare facilities for employees offer:

• On-campus childcare access, reducing commuting time and stress for working parents;

• Flexible childcare hours coordinated with academic and administrative work schedules;

• Care provided by qualified childcare personnel trained in early childhood development;

• A comfortable, structured, and development-friendly environment for children;

• Priority places for newborns and young children of BSU employees;

• Affordable and accessible services to ensure that childcare needs do not interfere with academic or professional duties.

By offering childcare solutions for both students and staff, BSU positions itself as a socially responsible institution that values family well-being and gender equality.

Comprehensive Support Measures Within BSU’s New Maternity Policy

1. Extended Maternity Leave with Full Job Protection

• 70 days pre-natal leave

• 56 days post-natal leave

• Up to 140 days in complicated or multiple births
  Salary compensation is guaranteed under state insurance rules.

2. Enhanced Health, Safety & Workplace Adjustments

Risk assessments, duty modifications, and medical appointment flexibility are guaranteed under the new policy.

3. Academic and Administrative Flexibility

Includes redistribution of teaching load, remote work options, adjusted administrative duties, and support for research obligations.

4. Anti-Discrimination Guarantees

Women will not face disadvantage in promotion, performance evaluations, contract renewal, or academic opportunities due to pregnancy or maternity leave.

5. Reintegration Support Following Maternity Leave

Includes structured reintegration plans, phased return-to-work options, and access to university wellness and counselling services.

Institutional Vision and Leadership Commitment

“This strengthened policy reflects BSU’s dedication to supporting both women employees and student mothers, ensuring they can pursue their academic or professional goals without compromising family responsibilities. Providing maternity protections and childcare services is not just a regulatory obligation—it is a strategic investment in a healthy, inclusive, and forward-looking university community,” the university administration stated.

Implementation Timeline

The policy came into force from 2022. HR will oversee implementation for staff, while the Student Affairs Department will coordinate access to childcare facilities and student support programs. BSU will continue to expand family-friendly policies to promote equal opportunities and modern institutional governance.