Outstanding participants of the 4IR Academy – Nation Program were recognized at Baku ID 2026, highlighting the role of lifelong learning and future-ready skills in strengthening Azerbaijan’s human capital.

A dedicated event celebrating the achievements of the 4IR Academy – Nation Program was held as part of the Baku ID 2026 Innovation Festival, where the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4SIM) under Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy served as a strategic partner.

During the ceremony, participants who distinguished themselves across 12 nomination categories received certificates of excellence and awards. The ceremony was attended by Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy; Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education; Shahmar Movsumov, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Department of Economic Affairs and Innovative Development Policy of the Presidential Administration; Rovshan Najaf, President of SOCAR; and Farid Mammadov, Chief Executive Officer of PASHA Financial Holding.

The nominations reflected the programme’s broad and inclusive reach, recognizing achievements in areas including lifelong learning and self-development, career advancement, regional talent development, entrepreneurship and start-up activity, women’s participation in innovation, knowledge sharing, and the engagement of different age and social groups in learning opportunities.

The event also highlighted the importance of developing human capital and equipping people with skills aligned with the evolving needs of the labour market. The opportunities created through the 4IR Academy – Nation Program were presented, alongside a video showcasing the results of the programme’s first phase and the achievements of its participants.

The 4IR Academy – Nation Program is jointly implemented by 4SIM, the State Agency for Science and Higher Education under the Ministry of Science and Education, and Coursera.

The programme aims to contribute to the development of Azerbaijan’s digital economy, strengthen competitive human capital and support the acquisition of skills required by the modern labour market. Through the initiative, citizens are provided with free access to more than 21,000 courses and learning opportunities on Coursera.

The programme is delivered through a public-private partnership model. Its main-stage partners include PASHA Holding, SOCAR, bp, Azerconnect Group, TotalEnergies, XRG, JOCAP, Norm Cement, Smart Solutions Group and B2B Group, which support the initiative as part of their corporate social responsibility commitments.