Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

At Baku State University (BSU), the opening ceremony of the “Youth in Intercultural Dialogue for Peace – Baku Forum” was held with the participation of academics, government representatives, and youth organizations.

The event began with the National Anthem of Azerbaijan, followed by a minute of silence in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity of the country.

BSU Vice-Rector for International Relations Shahin Panahov highlighted the importance of intercultural dialogue within higher education institutions. He noted that the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on Quality Education extends beyond the transfer of academic knowledge and also promotes mutual understanding and cooperation among different cultures. He emphasized that the presence of international students at the university contributes to the development of a multicultural academic environment based on tolerance, mutual respect, and dialogue.

Member of Parliament Rizvan Nabiyev spoke about the growing relevance of intercultural dialogue and peace initiatives amid global geopolitical tensions. He described Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev receiving the “Gernika Award for Peace and Reconciliation” as a reflection of the country’s commitment to peacebuilding and multicultural values. The deputy also stated that the forum serves as an important platform for strengthening dialogue and mutual understanding among young people.

Deputy Chairman of the Public Union “Bir Könüllü” Student Cooperation Rufiz Qulizade noted that the forum brings together local and international students as well as youth sector activists. According to him, the main objective of the initiative is to encourage intercultural dialogue among youth, strengthen mutual understanding, and promote the values of peace.

It was stated that the forum will continue for two days and will include panel discussions, experience-sharing activities, and interactive sessions.

The forum is organized with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and jointly implemented by the BSU Volunteers organization, the Global Alliance for Intercultural Dialogue, and the Public Union “Bir Könüllü” Student Cooperation.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)