“Youth Dialogues for the Future” Forum Dedicated to the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations Held at UNEC
The Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC) hosted the “Youth Dialogues for the Future” forum dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.
The event was attended by rector of UNEC, professor Adalat Muradov; United Nations resident coordinator in Azerbaijan, Ms. Vladanka Andreeva; advisor to the minister of economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Huseyn Huseynov; head of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations partnership and liaison office in Azerbaijan, Mr. Nasar Hayat; as well as UNEC students.
In his opening address, rector professor Adalat Muradov expressed his satisfaction with organizing the forum within the framework of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and emphasized its importance for UNEC students. The rector noted that the event coincided with a remarkable achievement for UNEC – the university’s inclusion in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for the first time. He underlined that UNEC ranked first among universities in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus and entered the top 801-1000 universities globally. Highlighting UNEC’s progress in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), professor Muradov stated that the university ranks second in Azerbaijan in this area and will continue to strengthen its position in the future.
Speaking about the significance of such initiatives, the rector emphasized that these discussions provide students with valuable opportunities to express their views, enhance analytical thinking, and deepen their understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals and global economic processes.
In her address, UN resident coordinator Ms. Vladanka Andreeva spoke about the mission and activities of the United Nations, noting that it serves as a global platform for countries to jointly address such challenges as poverty, inequality, and sustainability. She underscored the crucial role of education and practical competencies in youth development and emphasized that young people play a key role in building free and competitive economies. Speaking about the purpose of the forum, Ms. Andreeva noted that dialogue with youth is essential to establish direct communication, listen to their perspectives, and shape the future together: “We regard universities as the cradle of knowledge. We seek to hear the voices of young people, empower them, and jointly build the future – a future that will affect not only your lives but ours as well,” she stated.
Advisor to the minister of economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Huseyn Huseynov, spoke about the country’s achievements in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, stressing the impact of education, partnership, and cooperation principles on the development of the younger generation.
Head of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations partnership and liaison office in Azerbaijan, Mr. Nasar Hayat, addressed the participants on the evolving role of agriculture, noting that it is transforming from a traditional sector into one driven by innovation and technology. “If we fail to treat the land and food production responsibly today, tomorrow there will be neither fertile soil nor sustainable life,” he emphasized, adding that green technologies and digital solutions can make the agricultural sector more attractive for young people.
The panel discussions featured presentations by students of the UNEC International School of Economics (ISE), including Mr. Rovshan Mammadli and Mr. Huseyn Isayev, who spoke about the role of trade in sustainable development, increasing the competitiveness of the national economy, and managing related risks.
The forum concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students discussed issues related to sustainable development, education, innovations in agriculture, youth engagement in sustainability initiatives, and the role of international organizations and governments in achieving the sustainable development goals. Participants also exchanged views on the implications of global challenges such as climate change and economic instability for the region and Azerbaijan.