Representatives of NATO’s Defence and Security Cooperation Directorate recently convened with officials from Azerbaijan’s National Defence University (NDU) in Baku. The focus of their discussions was the progress and reforms within Azerbaijan’s military education institutions, carried out under NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP). The meeting, held on 29 and 30 May 2024, provided a platform to evaluate the advancements made and to set future priorities.
During the meeting, Major General Arif Hasanov, the Deputy Director of the NDU and Rector of the Military Research Institute, provided a comprehensive briefing on the progress achieved thus far. He highlighted the integration of new technology such as an e-library, which serves all defence education institutions in Azerbaijan. This e-library is a pivotal resource, enhancing the accessibility and dissemination of academic material, thereby supporting the ongoing educational reforms.
In line with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defence’s request, the cooperation between NATO and Azerbaijan will be steered towards several key areas. These include faculty development, academic exchange programmes, and the sharing of best practices. A significant emphasis will be placed on reforms within the defence and security sectors and the development of the corps of Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). Such initiatives are aimed at fostering a more professional and modern military education system in Azerbaijan.
Major General Hasanov expressed his sincere gratitude for NATO’s unwavering support in modernising and professionalising Azerbaijan’s Armed Forces’ education system. He underscored the importance of this collaboration in enhancing the overall capabilities and competencies of military personnel. The mutual efforts in educational reforms signify a robust partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to building a resilient and effective defence framework.
The NATO delegation acknowledged the strides made by Azerbaijan in reforming its military education. They commended the innovative approaches adopted, such as the implementation of the e-library, which marks a significant leap towards modernising educational resources. The NATO representatives reiterated their commitment to supporting Azerbaijan’s endeavours, ensuring that the military education institutions are equipped to meet contemporary challenges.
Looking forward, the NATO and Azerbaijani officials agreed on the necessity to continue this collaborative journey. The focus will be on consolidating the gains made and exploring new avenues for cooperation. Both parties are determined to build on the existing momentum, ensuring that the educational reforms translate into tangible improvements in the operational effectiveness of Azerbaijan’s Armed Forces.
The meeting in Baku serves as a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between NATO and Azerbaijan. Through continuous dialogue and cooperation, they aim to achieve significant milestones in defence education reform. This alliance not only strengthens Azerbaijan’s military capabilities but also contributes to regional stability and security.
In conclusion, the discussions between NATO and Azerbaijani officials underscore a shared vision for a progressive and modern military education system. The reforms undertaken and the future initiatives planned reflect a deep-seated commitment to excellence and professionalism in military education, which is essential for maintaining a robust defence posture.
