Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

Wang Jiaqi, a master’s student majoring in Sociology of Management at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Psychology of Baku State University (BSU), is also a student of Sun Yat-sen University of the People’s Republic of China. Within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between BSU and Beijing Foreign Studies University, and in accordance with BSU’s 2021–2030 Strategic Development Plan covering international mobility programs, he is pursuing his studies in Azerbaijan. We spoke with Wang Jiaqi about his research interests, impressions of Azerbaijan’s social development and energy sector, student life, and his future academic plans.

– Your research topic focuses on the development of Azerbaijani society. What does conducting this research in Azerbaijan itself give you?

– Azerbaijan holds a very important position between Asia and Europe, and your country has a long history in the oil industry. Recently, as in China, green energy sectors have also been developing here. My field of study and research is based precisely on the future development of the energy sector. Azerbaijan has a strong economy, and the standard of living is better compared to neighboring countries. Therefore, I believe Azerbaijan’s position will become even stronger in the future. Conducting research directly in its own context creates a more favorable environment for me.

– When looking at sociological issues between the two countries, what differences do you observe?

– It is difficult to speak broadly about differences between Chinese and Azerbaijani sociology, as China is a very large country with diverse sociological contexts. I have friends studying in this field, as well as researchers like myself who study other countries. The main aim of sociology is not only to understand a country but to analyze social problems and find solutions. In this regard, it is important to study both your own country and others. I do not think there are major differences in research methods between Azerbaijan and China. In both countries, comparisons are made, public surveys are conducted, and statistics are analyzed. The main difference lies in our societies themselves.

– What have you discovered while studying our country?

– Azerbaijan is a very beautiful country, especially Baku. During my time here, I discover something new almost every day. This year, I celebrated the New Year away from my homeland. Seeing people gathering in the cold weather to celebrate, feeling the joyful atmosphere, and being part of that environment became an unforgettable memory for me. Your country has an architectural style that combines historical traditions with modernity, which I truly admire. In Baku, historical buildings standing among modern high-rise structures seem to carry a living history into the present day.

– As a young researcher, what has the University given you?

BSU is one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the South Caucasus and Azerbaijan. Studying here has provided me not only with academic knowledge but also with a scientific way of thinking. While in China, I mainly learned about Azerbaijan through media, the internet, and books, but that knowledge was mostly theoretical. At BSU, I gained the opportunity to conduct research on site, interact with society, and draw scientific conclusions based on real observations. I had access to the University’s rich library resources and was able to read academic sources that were not available to me in China. The multicultural environment at BSU, along with communication with students and researchers from different countries, contributed greatly to my academic development.

– What is your student life like at BSU?

– All the people I have met in Azerbaijan have treated me with kindness and sincerity. Once, a stranger approached me on the street to ask whether I needed help. Such small but genuine gestures show that people in Azerbaijan are attentive, helpful, and hospitable. My friends at BSU often invite me to various events. As Azerbaijan–China relations develop, the number of people interested in learning Chinese is increasing. I also participate in Chinese language classes for this purpose.

Currently, I live in the student dormitory. Living together with students from different countries is very interesting for me. The coming together of various cultures demonstrates that Azerbaijan is an international country and increases foreign students’ interest in studying at BSU.

– How do you envision your future career?

My goal is to introduce Azerbaijan more closely to the Chinese public. For this, a master’s degree alone is not sufficient. Therefore, I plan to continue my academic career. After returning to China, I would like to work on research and academic articles about Azerbaijan, particularly focusing on Azerbaijan’s relations with other countries.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)