Azerbaijan University celebrated its 32nd Graduation Day at the Badamdar Hotel and Residences. The event brought together the University leadership, academic faculty, administrative staff, and the graduating class.

The official ceremony commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a minute of silence observed in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, as well as the University’s fallen alumni.

Opening the ceremony, Saadat Aliyeva, Rector of Azerbaijan University and PhD in Philology, delivered a congratulatory address. The Rector emphasized that Graduation Day marks not only the conclusion of student life but also the beginning of a new chapter. She noted that the young individuals graduating today will serve as the driving force behind the country’s development across various sectors tomorrow, and that their future accomplishments will remain a continuous source of pride for the University.

Rector Saadat Aliyeva highlighted that continuous self-improvement, lifelong learning, and the acquisition of new knowledge stand as essential conditions for success in the modern era. To stay competitive, excel, and meaningfully contribute to society in a rapidly changing world, the principle of lifelong education must become a core life philosophy for every graduate.

The Rector emphasized that the University administrative and academic staff mobilize all available resources to ensure students complete their undergraduate and graduate studies within a high-quality, equitable, and modern academic environment. Expressing her deep appreciation for the unwavering support and dedication of the parents, she extended her heartfelt wishes to the graduates: “I congratulate all our graduates. I am confident that each of you will achieve great success at this new stage of life, hold high the name of your family, your University, and your state, and represent our University with dignity”, the Rector concluded.

The graduates were subsequently congratulated by Nushaba Guliyeva, Advisor to the Rector and Director of the International Center for Master’s and Doctoral Studies; Safar Mammadov, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; Asif Pashayev, Dean of the Faculty of ICT; Tural Gojayev, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics; and Afig Nadirov, Head of the Academic Advising and E-University Department. They wished the graduates success in their further education, personal lives, and professional careers.

Following the addresses, Rector Saadat Aliyeva presented honorary certificates to 16 graduates who demonstrated outstanding community engagement throughout their four years of study while maintaining high GPA.

Shahriyar Garibov, a graduate of the Faculty of Business and Economics majoring in International Trade and Logistics and a university staff member, graduated with top honors, earning the title of valedictorian for the 2025/2026 academic year. Marking a historic milestone at the University, Shahriyar Garibov placed his portrait on the “Pride of the University” honor board and addressed the audience on behalf of the graduates. In his speech, he reflected on the impact of his university years on his personal and professional growth, expressing gratitude to the University administration, faculty members, and colleagues who supported him throughout his journey.

The official portion of the event concluded with the performance of the Azerbaijan University Anthem by the graduates, followed by a cultural entertainment program.

It should be noted that approximately 800 undergraduate and graduate students graduated from Azerbaijan University this year. The graduation ceremony not only marks the end of their student years but also symbolizes the beginning of a promising new chapter in their lives and careers.

Public Relations Department.