Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

Comprehensive Report 2024

1. Academic Staff Overview

1.1. Academic Staff

• Total Academic Staff (FTE) in 2023: 1620 (senior academic staff 1072)

• Total Academic Staff (FTE) in 2024: 2187 (senior academic staff 1798)

In 2023, the total number of academic staff (FTE) at the university was 1,620, with 1,072 identified as senior academic staff, representing the experienced and leadership-level faculty. By 2024, the total academic staff had grown substantially to 2,187, with senior academic staff increasing to 1,798. This sharp rise reflects a strategic effort by the university to strengthen its academic capacity, improve the student-to-faculty ratio, and expand both teaching and research activities. The increase in senior academic staff suggests a deliberate focus on recruiting highly qualified and experienced faculty, which can enhance program quality, mentorship opportunities, and research output. Factors contributing to this growth likely include the introduction of new departments and programs, increased funding for faculty positions, and institutional initiatives aimed at boosting academic excellence and international competitiveness. 

1.2. International Faculty

• International Faculty Members in 2023: 175 

• International Faculty Members in 2024: 211 

Baku State University has experienced a notable increase in the number of international faculty members, rising from 175 in 2023 to 211 in 2024. This growth reflects the university’s ongoing strategic commitment to internationalization, academic excellence, and alignment with national higher education priorities. A key driver of this increase has been the expansion of dual degree and joint academic programs in collaboration with internationally recognized partner universities. These programs require the active involvement of foreign faculty members for curriculum delivery, quality assurance, and adherence to international academic standards.

The increase in international faculty also aligns with national policy initiatives encouraging higher education institutions in Azerbaijan to diversify and internationalize their academic workforce. In response, BSU has proactively recruited international faculty to support instruction in foreign languages, deliver specialized courses, and contribute to accreditation processes connected to global standards.

Over the past year, BSU has intensified global recruitment efforts, particularly targeting qualified academics from Türkiye, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. The launch of new joint academic programs and cross-border research collaborations has further contributed to the rise in visiting and contract-based international staff.

This upward trend enhances the university’s international profile, enriches the learning environment, strengthens research capacity, and supports BSU’s long-term vision of becoming a globally connected institution. The presence of international faculty also fosters a culturally diverse academic environment and introduces global perspectives into course delivery, benefiting both students and the broader academic community.

2. Student Retention and Completion Rates

2.1. Retention Rates

• Undergraduate Retention: 99% of first-year students return for their second year.
  This indicates a robust academic support system, a well-designed curriculum, and a positive learning environment.

2.2. Completion Rates

• Undergraduate Completion Rates (2019-2023): 97–98% graduate within four years.
  These exceptional rates suggest an effective teaching framework and student support system with minimal dropouts.

2.3. Students from regions

• According to the data for the las 5 years, more than 75% of the students come from the region, reflecting Baku State University’s role in providing accessible higher education to local populations. Enrollment has been steadily increasing, with a growth of 2.4% in the most recent year.

3. Student Satisfaction

3.1. Overall Satisfaction

• Overall Satisfaction: 96.6%.
  This reflects success in meeting student expectations across teaching, facilities, and support services.

3.2. Teaching Satisfaction

• Teaching Satisfaction: 96%.
  Students rate the quality of teaching highly, indicating strong faculty engagement, relevant curriculum design, and effective delivery.

4. Graduate Outcomes

4.1. Survey Responses

• Surveyed Period: Graduates from 2021 and 2022

• Undergraduate Respondents: 1,385 of 6,786 graduates (20.41% response rate).

4.2. Further Study or Employment (Undergraduates)

• Full-Time Study: 590 graduates

• Part-Time Study: 334 graduates

• Other Outcomes: 461 (employed, military service, or health-related reasons)

• Trend: 67% pursue further education, highlighting the institution’s strength in preparing students for advanced studies and competitive careers.

According to the graduate survey, 90% of respondents are employed in positions requiring higher education qualifications and aligned with their field of study. This reflects the institution's effectiveness in preparing graduates for specialized roles that leverage their academic expertise. Furthermore, the survey indicates an overall employability rate of 95%, underscoring the university's success in equipping students with the skills and competencies demanded by the job market. The data shows that 55% of Baku State University graduates are employed in the region within a 5 year of graduation. This indicates a strong link between the university’s output and regional workforce needs.

The institution offers comprehensive career service support to guide students in achieving their professional aspirations. A dedicated team of 16 career advisors, strategically scaled to maintain a ratio of 1 advisor per 1,000 students, ensures personalized and accessible guidance.

To enhance career readiness, the university provides a range of development services. Students benefit from customized workshops and sessions tailored to improving interview skills, CV/resume writing, and crafting compelling cover letters. These services are instrumental in preparing students for competitive job markets and career opportunities.

The institution emphasizes direct engagement with potential employers through at least one on-campus career fair annually. These events foster valuable networking opportunities and expose students to diverse employment prospects. In addition, individual career advising sessions are available to offer students tailored guidance based on their unique goals and aspirations.

To complement these services, the university operates a state-of-the-art online career portal. This platform provides seamless access to job vacancies and an easy-to-use appointment system for scheduling sessions with career advisors. Through these robust support mechanisms, the institution ensures that students are well-prepared for their professional journeys.

5. Teaching Support Infrastructure

5.1. Learning Management System (LMS)

The university leverages an advanced LMS for teaching support, with the following features:

• Accessibility: Mobile and remote access.

• Interactive Tools: Facilitates collaboration and communication.

• Program Integration: Adopted in over 90% of programs.

• Analytics: Tracks student performance for personalized learning interventions.

• Staff Training: Regular faculty training ensures optimal use of LMS tools.

6. International Support and Engagement

6.1. Exchange Program Data

• Outbound Students: 99

• Inbound Students: 48

6.2. International Support Centre

• Staffing: 3 full-time equivalent (FTE) employee.

• Services Provided:

  • Immigration/visa assistance for students from 42 nationalities.

  • Language competency courses.

  • Scholarships for international students.

  • Events: Freshman Day, Buddy Program.

7. Membership in International Networks

The university is a full member of 12 prestigious organizations:

1. EURAS (Eurasian Universities Union) – Enhancing educational standards across Eurasia.

2. EUA (European University Association) – Representation in the Bologna Process and EU policies.

3. UNICA – Collaboration among universities in European capitals.

4. AASHE – Advancing sustainability in higher education.

5. WAITRO – Facilitating global innovation collaboration.

6. IAF – Advocacy in space science and technology.

7. EIFL – Supporting access to knowledge in developing countries.

8. BSUN – Fostering collaboration in the Black Sea Region.

9. FUIW – Cooperation among Islamic universities.

10. STAR-NET – Preserving nuclear technology knowledge.

11. Association of Higher Educational Institutions of Azerbaijan and Russia – Promoting joint research initiatives.

12. ELFA – Improving legal education quality across Europe.

8. Strengths in Teaching and Engagement

• Qualified Faculty: 87% with PhDs.

• High Satisfaction Rates: Over 96% satisfaction in teaching and overall experience.

• Diversity: International faculty and students enrich the learning environment.

• Technological Integration: LMS supports modern pedagogical methods.

• Graduate Success: A significant number pursuing further studies or employment.

9. Recommendations for Improvement

1. Increase Graduate Survey Responses: Improve response rates through reminders and incentives.

2. Expand International Recruitment: Target regions to enhance student diversity.

3. Invest in Advanced Teaching Tools: Incorporate AI and personalized learning methods.

4. Refine Data Collection: Include postgraduate metrics for comprehensive evaluation.

5. Monitor Trends: Align curricula with global industry demands and standards.

Programs with Guaranteed Apprenticeships and Enrolled Students

This table outlines the number of students enrolled in various academic programs that offer guaranteed apprenticeships. These apprenticeships, organized by employers and universities, are designed to help graduates acquire the skills needed by the industry. They typically last longer than internships (often spanning one or more years), are always paid, and lead to a professional credential recognized in the field.

1. Arts and Humanities

• Programs: Archaeology, Classics, English Language and Literature, History, Linguistics, Modern Languages, Philosophy, Urban Planning.

2. Engineering and Technology

• Programs: Computer Science, Data Science and AI, Energy, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, General Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mineral and Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering.

3. Social Sciences and Management

• Programs: Anthropology, Area Studies, Communication and Media Studies, Community Development, Criminology, Development Studies, Education and Training, Hospitality and Leisure Management, International Relations/Studies, Journalism, Law, Library and Information Management, Logistics/Supply Chain Management, Politics, Public Policy, Real Estate, Social Policy and Administration, Social Work, Sociology, Sports-Related Subjects, Statistics and Operational Research.

4. Life Sciences and Medicine

• Programs: Agriculture, Anatomy and Physiology, Biological Sciences, Genetics, Psychology, Zoology.

5. Natural Sciences

• Programs: Astronomy, Chemistry, Earth and Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Food Science, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Materials Sciences, Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy, Sustainable Development.

6. Business and Management

• Programs: Accounting and Finance, Business and Management Studies, Economics and Econometrics.

More than 14 Percentage of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students Enrolled in Programs with Guaranteed Apprenticeships:

These apprenticeships are a distinctive feature of the university programs and are aimed at ensuring graduates possess the skills that employers seek. They not only provide financial support but also guarantee that the students acquire relevant industry experience, giving them a professional credential recognized by employers in their respective fields.

Apprenticeships typically last longer than internships, often spanning multiple years, and involve a paid experience that culminates in a professional certification. This stands in contrast to internships, which are usually shorter, may or may not be paid, and may not always lead to a formal credential.

Interships:

According to Azerbaijani legislation, internships are mandatory for all students as a requirement for graduation. This regulation ensures that students gain practical experience in their respective fields of study, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the job market. By completing an internship, students not only apply theoretical learning in real-world settings but also enhance their employability, making them more competitive in their chosen professions. This legislative requirement underscores the importance of bridging academic learning with practical, hands-on experience.

Fostering Scientific and Cultural Engagement: Baku State University's Investment in Research, Arts and Creativity

Baku State University generated a total of 4,572,200 AZN in research income from industry, reflecting a substantial increase in industry engagement and applied research activities. A major portion of this income was generated through expanded contract-based research collaborations within STEM disciplines. These projects, conducted in partnership with industrial stakeholders in applied sciences, engineering, technology, and innovation-driven research areas, benefited from the University’s strengthened research capacity, including a 58% increase in STEM academic staff, which reached 1,122 members. This growth in skilled personnel has significantly enhanced the University’s ability to attract and deliver industry-funded research projects.

Applied research in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences also saw considerable growth, generating 1,066,440 AZN. This increase reflects rising demand from industry and institutions for applied research in areas such as policy analysis, socio-economic studies, management, and social impact research, all conducted under formal contractual arrangements.

Overall, the University recorded a 35% increase in total academic staff, reaching 2,187 faculty members. This expansion has positively influenced research productivity, strengthened institutional capacity, and improved the University’s ability to secure competitive, externally funded research contracts from both industry and commercial partners. The combined growth in human resources and strategic collaborations underscores BSU’s commitment to innovation, applied research, and impactful partnerships that align academic expertise with real-world challenges.

Baku State University demonstrated its commitment to fostering cultural and artistic development through substantial financial investments in various initiatives during the 2023–2024 academic year. The university allocated 1,550,650 AZN to events organized by the Cultural and Creative Center, Events held at Museums of Baku State University and other cultural related events highlighting its dedication to enriching the campus community's cultural experience. Furthermore, additional events hosted at the university's museums and other cultural-related activities contributed to promoting art and heritage. These initiatives reflect the university's strategic focus on integrating cultural and creative engagement into its academic environment. 

SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, SDG 5 – Gender Equality, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production