An awareness rising event titled “Towards an Inclusive Society” was held at Azerbaijan University at the initiative of Aykhan Gahramanov, a lecturer in the Department of Social Work Organization. The event featured speeches by Javid Rahimli, Deputy Head of the Department for the Organization of mobile and semi-stationary social services of the Social Services Agency; Suleyman Jafarov, Chairman of the Absheron District of Public Association “Ghazi of Special Forces, families of martyrs, and veterans”; and Imamaddin Khalilov, member of the Azerbaijani national para-taekwondo team and Paralympic Games champion. Discussions focused on the active participation of people with disabilities in public life and the expansion of their rights and opportunities.

The event was opened by Nigar Shahhuseynbayova, head of the Department, who introduced the speakers and guests. The Department lecturer Aykhan Gahramanov then thanked the guests for their participation, noting that discussions and practical approaches to social issues play a significant role in the education of social work students. He emphasized that the attention and care shown towards vulnerable groups and people with disabilities in Azerbaijan are comprehensive, with their social protection and medical-social rehabilitation being key priorities of state policy. He added that the active engagement of social work students in this field inspires great hope for the future.

Javid Rahimli, Deputy Head of the Department for the Organization of mobile and semi-stationary social services of the Social Services Agency highlighted the importance of mobile social services and the active involvement of people with disabilities in society. He provided information about the Agency’s legal and psychological counseling services, as well as the operational directions of social service institutions.

Suleyman Jafarov, Chairman of the Absheron District of Public Association “Ghazi of Special Forces, families of martyrs, and veterans”, underscored that integrating people with disabilities into society is a core focus of state policy. He spoke about the challenges faced by veterans and people with disabilities, the efforts undertaken to improve their social welfare, and the government’s support for war veterans and participants of the Patriotic War.

Paralympic Games champion Imamaddin Khalilov shared his life story and achievements in sports, stating that his success serves as an inspiration to other athletes. He emphasized that despite the difficulties he has faced, he remains optimistic, overcoming personal insecurities through sports and bringing new meaning to his life.

The event concluded with a performance of “The Azerbaijani deer” song by Agaali Niftalizada, a third-year student of the Azerbaijan National Conservatory, on the kamancha.

Public Relations Department