Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

Sofiana Jamil Afifah is an Indonesian student at Baku State University (BSU). She is studying under the "Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant" program. She has a very positive view of both Azerbaijani culture and the country’s education system. In this interview, we discussed her arrival in Azerbaijan, her education, and her goals.

• Hello, Sofiana, can you tell us about yourself?
• I am currently studying in the preparatory group at BSU. At the same time, I am learning both English and Azerbaijani. This helps me improve my language skills. After completing the preparatory course, I will pursue a master’s degree in "History Teaching."
• How did you choose to study in Azerbaijan, particularly at BSU?
• My decision to study here was based on recommendations from my Indonesian teachers. I was very happy when I earned my student status through the "Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant" program. There are strong connections between Indonesia and Azerbaijan. There is also an organization for Indonesian students here, which has been a great support for me.
• What are your impressions of our country?
• I love Azerbaijan. I find Baku, especially the Old City (Icherisheher), very interesting, with its rich historical monuments. I had the chance to visit Shusha recently, and it made a great impression on me. Azerbaijan has an ancient history, and this wealth is reflected in its museums.
• What do you think about our national culture and cuisine?
• Azerbaijani cuisine is very different. In Indonesia, we mostly eat dishes made with rice, but here, the dish I liked the most was khangal (dumplings). One day, our teacher cooked khangal for the foreign students, and we really enjoyed it. Khangal is very popular here.
• Was it difficult to get used to Azerbaijan's climate?
• As you know, Indonesia has only two seasons. So, it was a little challenging at first. But I adjusted over time.
• What do you think about Azerbaijan’s education system?
• Azerbaijan's education system is very good. The teaching methods here are of a high level. The teachers are always ready to help and explain the subjects we want to learn in a clear way. This has positively impacted my education.
• What are the advantages of studying at BSU?
• This university offers strong support for academic research. Studying at BSU has given me the opportunity to deepen my understanding of historical events, theories, and pedagogical methods. As a foreign student, interacting with peers from various cultures has expanded my worldview, enhanced my critical thinking, and improved my skills in intercultural dialogue.
• How do you spend your student life?
• I live in the "Student House" at BSU. Foreign students also stay there. We spend our free time together, cooking meals. I also work in the Indonesian students’ organization. We carry out projects together with the National Council of Youth Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan (NAYORA).
• Do you want to stay and work in Azerbaijan in the future?
• Yes, I would like to continue my education in Azerbaijan. If there are job opportunities here, I would be happy to work as well. Azerbaijan seems like a very interesting and attractive country to me. After returning to my country, I also want to support the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Indonesia. My goal is to promote Azerbaijan more in Indonesia. I want Indonesian youth to be more informed about Azerbaijan. In this regard, I have also given an online presentation about the "Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant" program for Indonesian youth.

Prepared by: Narmina Asadova

SDG 4 – Quality education, SDG 10 – Reduced inequalities, SDG 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions, SDG 17 – Partnerships for the goals