An event organized by the Department of Social Work Organization was held at Azerbaijan University on the occasion of 3 December – the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event was attended by students majoring in Social Work and active members of the “Sosfera” Social Development Club.

In her opening remarks, Nigar Shahguseynbayova, Head of the Department, noted that 3 December, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, was established by the UN General Assembly. She emphasized that the primary purpose of this Day is to raise awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities, promote equal opportunities, advance an inclusive approach, and highlight the importance of eliminating social stereotypes. Speaking about the significance of social work with persons with disabilities, she underscored the importance of ensuring their rights, enhancing social participation, and building an inclusive society, while also drawing attention to the key mission of social work professionals in this field.

In his presentation, the Department lecturer Aykhan Shahbazsoy, analyzed stigmatization, discrimination, and stereotypes related to disability that exist in society and spoke about constructive social work methods that can be applied to address these issues. He also presented innovative technologies that facilitate rehabilitation and social participation of persons with disabilities, modern assistive tools, and examples from international practice.

The guest speaker of the event, Fidan Hajiyeva-Agazada, a master’s student at Azerbaijan University and a person with a disability, shared her personal experience, speaking about the challenges she has faced, her sources of motivation, and coping strategies. She addressed the difficulties encountered by persons with disabilities in the labor market and existing societal gaps, noting that environmental accessibility, inclusive infrastructure, and public support play a decisive role in ensuring social integration and employment.

Following the presentations, students put forward a number of innovative proposals related to the social adaptation of persons with disabilities, the creation of an inclusive environment, and their rehabilitation.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, during which Fidan Hajiyeva-Agazada responded to students’ questions.

Public Relations Department