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NECDET ÜNÜVAR HAS DESCRIBED THE MEETING WITH ACADEMICIAN KAMAL ABDULLA AND PROFESSORS RAFIQ ALIYEV AND MESSOUD EFENDIYEV AS A LANDMARK EVENT.

On 24 April, another successful chapter was added to the modern history of Azerbaijani–Turkish scientific and cultural cooperation at Ankara University. That day, Ankara University hosted the presentation and discussion of books co-authored by distinguished Azerbaijani scholars — People's Writer, Academician Kamal Abdulla, and corresponding member of ANAS, Professor Rafiq Aliyev: "Book of Dede Korkut and Fuzzy Logic", "Fuzzy Logic and Language-Speech", as well as "Fuzzy Logic for Children", which Azerbaijani scholars co-authored with Turkey's former Minister of Education, Professor Ziya Selcuk. Rector of Ankara University Necdet Ünüvar described the meeting with Academician Kamal Abdulla and Professors Rafiq Aliyev and Messoud Efendiyev as a landmark event.

A Memorandum of Understanding supporting official cooperation between Azerbaijan Medical University (ATU) and the World Association of Azerbaijani Scientists (WAAS) has been signed. The document, signed by ATU Rector Professor Garay Garaybeyli and WAAS Chair Professor Messoud Efendiyev, provides for the organisation and development of mutually beneficial cooperation in education, science and culture. The memorandum also supports joint scientific and research programmes, projects and activities, including scientific research, professional development of scholars and specialists, and exchange of academic and administrative staff and undergraduate, master's and residency students.

On 8 April, a meeting was held at Karabakh University within the existing cooperation framework with the World Association of Azerbaijani Scientists (WAAS). This cooperation is not limited to organising individual events; it also carries significant strategic importance for Karabakh University's integration into the international scientific environment, strengthening its academic potential and development in line with modern higher education standards.

At previous meetings, the parties identified key areas of cooperation, including joint research projects, establishing modern laboratories, organising online classes and seminars, engaging Azerbaijani scholars abroad in teaching, and holding joint conferences, forums and symposiums, and developed a concrete action plan in these areas.

The meeting was attended by WAAS Chair Professor Messoud Efendiyev, an Azerbaijani mathematician-scholar based in Germany, and WAAS member Professor Saadat Karimi of the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.

An online meeting was held between Baku Engineering University (BMU) and members of the World Association of Azerbaijani Scientists (WAAS). The meeting discussed cooperation opportunities between the university and Azerbaijani scholars working abroad. Key topics included engaging scholars in teaching, organising master classes for students and conducting joint scientific research. BMU's rector provided information on the university's recent achievements, international partnerships and efforts to expand scientific activity. The parties reached preliminary agreement on future cooperation and appointed coordinators.

WAAS Board of Directors Co-Chair Dr. Bakhtiyar Sirajov held an online meeting with the teachers and pupils of Baku General Education School No. 187. The meeting discussed the importance of science, the role of Azerbaijani scholars on the international stage and advice for the younger generation.

The opening ceremony of the XI International Scientific and Practical Youth Conference "February Lectures 2026: Creative Potential of Youth in Solving Aerospace Issues" was held at the National Aviation Academy. At the plenary session, WAAS Chair Professor Messoud Efendiyev spoke about the importance of integrating Azerbaijani scholars living abroad into Azerbaijan's science and education. He emphasised that one of WAAS's main goals is to strengthen cooperation among Azerbaijani scholars working worldwide.

By Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated 7 January 2026, a group of Azerbaijanis were awarded high state honours for strengthening friendship among peoples and contributing to the development of the Azerbaijani diaspora. Active WAAS members were among those honoured: Mesud Asina received the Order of Glory; Akif Alaferdov, Bakhtiyar Sirajov, Khadija Zeynalova and Khalil Kalantar were awarded the Progress Medal.

Mesud Asina

Akif Alaferdov

Bakhtiyar Sirajov

Khadija Zeynalova

Khalil Kalantar

On 18 December, a ceremonial gathering was held to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction (AzMIU). World-renowned scholar, WAAS Board of Directors Chair and Adviser to the AzMIU Rector Professor Messoud Efendiyev shared his impressions as one of the participants.

"The 50-year journey of Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction came vividly to life at the event. AzMIU is an important university for Azerbaijan. Architecture and construction are components worthy of our victorious people and essential for Azerbaijan. Many fine words were spoken about the University at the event, and its exceptional role was emphasised."

Messoud Efendiyev also held a two-day meeting with the university's doctoral students and young research scholars. Discussions covered doctoral research activity, opportunities for international scientific integration and pathways to the global scientific arena. Particular attention was given to publishing young researchers' articles in internationally indexed journals such as Web of Science and Scopus.

Professor Messoud Efendiyev gave detailed advice on writing articles, peer review processes, research ethics and access to international academic networks. Discussions also covered the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), Horizon Europe and ERC (European Research Council) programmes, and other international research and innovation platforms. Current research priorities on the global agenda, multidisciplinary projects and opportunities to participate in international consortia were also reviewed.

AZERTAC report 525.az report

An international conference on "Fatwa and Humanitarian Reality Issues" was held in Cairo with muftis, Islamic scholars and specialists from more than 50 countries. WAAS Co-Chair Seymur Nasirov spoke at the conference about the climate of tolerance in Azerbaijan. Scholars and muftis selected by Egypt's Grand Mufti were honoured for their work; Seymur Nasirov was among the recipients.

As part of ANAS's 80th anniversary, a ceremony was held to sign memoranda of understanding with academies of sciences from several countries. Among other agreements, a memorandum of understanding was also signed between ANAS and the World Association of Azerbaijani Scientists (WAAS).

Professor Messoud Efendiyev, the first Azerbaijani laureate of the Humboldt Award — one of the highest honours in world science — and Head of the Dynamic Systems Division at the Helmholtz Research Centre in Germany, issued a statement on the occasion of ANAS's 80th anniversary.

Yulduz Rahimov, Scientific Secretary of WAAS, Azerbaijani scholar living in Canada and Professor at York University, visited ADA University's Gazakh Centre on 29 October 2025. The visit was organised on the initiative of Hafiz Pashayev, Founding Rector of ADA University and originator of the Gazakh Centre concept. Nicat Rahimli, a master's student at Roma Tor Vergata University in Italy, also took part. Centre Director Yegana Goyushova gave guests detailed information about the Centre's activities, restoration of historic buildings and development goals.

Operating since October 2022 in the historic building of the Gazakh Teachers' Seminary, ADA University Gazakh Centre both preserves the region's historical heritage and brings a modern, innovative educational environment to the area. The complex has been restored to a high standard in its original architectural style, and the surrounding area has been landscaped into modern campus infrastructure. Classrooms equipped with digital teaching tools, a spacious library, reading and discussion areas, comfortable social spaces and green recreation zones with ornamental plants have been created for students.

Teachers' House, built for the pedagogical staff living at the Centre, provides fully equipped accommodation. Fair compensation for former residents during construction reflects the project's social responsibility principles. The student dormitory at ADA Gazakh Centre also offers a fully equipped, functional living environment meeting modern standards, with spacious rooms, recreation areas and modern spaces for reading and group work, as well as facilities adapted for students with disabilities.

The locally significant historic Israfil Agha bathhouse of the 19th century, part of the Centre's teaching complex, has been restored and converted into a cultural and creative space. It houses a museum bringing together examples from the Gazakh carpet school and an art club for local youth. This historic venue is ideal for small-scale musical, literary and cultural events and combines the Seminary's historic spirit with contemporary creativity.

Discussions between the WAAS Scientific Secretary and the leadership of ADA University Gazakh Centre during the visit took place in a particularly warm and inspiring atmosphere. Sharing views on expanding the scientific network, implementing joint research projects and increasing academic exchange opportunities, both sides emphasised the great value of Gazakh's historic scientific heritage and the new educational environment forming there. Ideas put forward to strengthen the region's scientific and cultural potential, increase young people's commitment to science and revive Gazakh as an intellectual centre gave the meeting special spirit. The visit will be remembered as a significant step contributing to new cooperation opportunities for both sides.

A meeting was held with Yulduz Rahimov, a graduate of Baku State University (BDU), Professor at York University in Canada and WAAS Board of Directors member. Professor Yulduz Rahimov delivered a master class on "Number Theory and Cryptography" for the faculty's academic staff, students and doctoral candidates.

A meeting was held with Dr. Bakhtiyar Sirajov, a graduate of the Faculty of Applied Mathematics and Cybernetics at Baku State University (BDU) and WAAS Board of Directors Co-Chair.

The event was attended by BDU Vice-Rector for Science and Innovation Huseyn Mammadov, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Mathematics and Cybernetics Alekber Aliyev, and the faculty's teachers and students.

Dean Alekber Aliyev noted that graduates of the Faculty of Applied Mathematics and Cybernetics work successfully in various countries, including Azerbaijan, holding senior positions. One such graduate is Bakhtiyar Sirajov, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Alekber Aliyev told students about the life path of our graduate, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 by decision of the Norwegian Nobel Committee and worked for many years as a senior official at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and emphasised that such meetings play an important role in students' development.

Bakhtiyar Sirajov said he studied at BDU's Faculty of Applied Mathematics and Cybernetics from 1974 to 1979. He expressed pleasure at meeting students at his alma mater. The guest gave detailed information about his path from student years to his work at the IAEA and emphasised the importance of young people's contribution to the development of science. He gratefully remembered the Azerbaijani scholars from whom he benefited and proudly noted that their students today work at prestigious universities and research centres around the world.

It was noted that in 2005, by decision of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, the IAEA and its Director General Mohamed ElBaradei were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their services in preventing the military use of nuclear energy and ensuring its safe use for peaceful purposes. Bakhtiyar Sirajov has been among the Nobel Peace Prize recipients since that time, together with other IAEA staff.

Bakhtiyar Sirajov then answered students' questions.

Research scholar Seymur Nasirov was awarded the medal of Egypt's Ministry of Education for services to the development of scientific and cultural relations between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Republic of Azerbaijan. The award was presented in Baku by Professor Tariq Abu Futuh, Director of the Egypt Culture Centre.

President of Egypt Abdel Fattah el-Sisi awarded Azerbaijani research scholar Seymur Nasirov the first-class "Science and Arts" order. This order, presented personally by the President of Egypt, is awarded to distinguished scholars for services to the development and dissemination of science.

Since May 2025, WAAS Board of Directors member and press secretary Dr. Saadat Karimi, Associate Professor at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, has been teaching a comprehensive course on "HIGHER EDUCATION PEDAGOGY" (TEACHING AND LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION) to a group of teachers at Karabakh University. Instruction has been delivered mainly in English, remotely and in accordance with European Union standards. Although most participating teachers have completed master's or doctoral studies abroad, they have expressed appreciation for the opportunity and recognised the importance of the course.

The course aims to equip university teachers with pedagogical training to strengthen the quality of education at undergraduate and master's levels and to create favourable conditions for student learning and knowledge development. It also covers strengthening the quality of academic supervision.

The course consists of two modules. The first module concluded with examinations on 10 June 2025; the second module will run from the second half of August until the first week of November and will conclude with certification. The 50-hour course is at the 15-credit level and comprises three hours per week of lectures, seminars and workshops.

Saadat Karimi said she felt honoured and pleased to contribute to Karabakh University and to participate closely in the rapid construction efforts of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including in science and education. In her view, it would be appropriate to offer the course regularly each semester to newly appointed university teachers. Teachers from various universities across Azerbaijan could take the course remotely.

On 4 February, the 10th International Scientific and Practical Youth Conference "February Lectures 2025: Creative Potential of Youth in Solving Aerospace Issues", dedicated to Azerbaijan Youth Day and the launch date of our country's first telecommunications satellite Azerspace 1, began at the National Aviation Academy (MAA) of Azerbaijan Airlines.

AZERTAC reports that more than 150 participants representing over 20 scientific and educational institutions from Russia, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, Ukraine, Belarus, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Israel and Azerbaijan — including 13 universities, 7 research centres, institutes, government bodies and leading organisations — took part in the conference.

At the conference, WAAS Board of Directors Chair Professor Messoud Efendiyev presented on the activities of WAAS.

A meeting was held with Azerbaijani scholar Seymur Nasirov, Chair of the Egypt–Azerbaijan Friendship Society, within the Cairo International Book Fair.

AZERTAC reports, citing the Egypt–Azerbaijan Friendship Society, that senior Egyptian officials, scholars and foreign students studying in the country took part in the meeting organised by Egypt's Ministry of Endowments.

At the event, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs Professor Muhammad al-Bayyumi noted that Seymur Nasirov's scientific, public and cultural activities are highly valued by Egyptian society and that he is a great example for students studying in the country.

A videoconference with nearly 1,000 compatriots from 85 countries was held under the auspices of the State Committee on Diaspora Affairs. During the conference, it was announced that WAAS members Saida Khalilova (Oman), Rovshan Ibrahimov (South Korea) and Hajali Najafoglu (Türkiye) had been awarded the medal "For service in diaspora activity".

The Association of Azerbaijani Academics in Sweden (GOBUSTAN) has addressed an official appeal to the Norwegian Nobel Committee requesting that Mikhail Gorbachev be deprived of the Nobel Peace Prize.

UNEC Rector Prof. Adalet Muradov: We discussed UNEC's cooperation opportunities with WAAS members from all continents. We discussed joint scientific research and dissemination of results, support for young scholars, joint journals, creating a mechanism for exchanging information in scientific activity and other matters. I thank every WAAS member who took part in the discussion, led by WAAS Board of Directors Chair Professor Messoud Efendiyev, for the time and support they devoted to UNEC.

The article provides extensive information about Messoud Efendiyev, a distinguished Azerbaijani scholar based in Germany and the first Azerbaijani laureate of the Alexander von Humboldt Award ("small Nobel prize"). The scholar emphasises that Azerbaijan's science and education policy has taken on a systematic and strategic character in recent years, with growing attention to artificial intelligence and information technology. He notes that through WAAS, Azerbaijani scholars abroad seek to contribute to the development of science in Azerbaijan. The article also highlights cooperation prospects with Nakhchivan State University, expanding international scientific ties and the importance of encouraging young people in science. Messoud Efendiyev believes that a strong scientific environment, international cooperation and quality research can pave the way for greater international success for Azerbaijani scholars in the future.

On 15 October 2024, a meeting was held between members of the WAAS Board of Directors and the leadership of Karabakh University. Initiated by WAAS and held online, the meeting aimed to discuss cooperation opportunities in teaching, research and strengthening the international recognition and standing of Karabakh University.