A meeting was held at the Academy of Labour and Social Relations of the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation (AHIK) with Mr. Sergius Glovackas, Head of the Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV) of the International Labour Organization (ILO) for Europe and Central Asia.
In his address, AHIK Chairman Mr. Sahib Mammadov emphasized the importance of developing education and enhancing international cooperation to adapt to changes in the labour market. He spoke about the activities of the Academy, its 100% admission rate, the establishment of the Centre for Professional Development and Capacity Building, and the organization of international training programmes.
It was noted that the Academy has been internationally accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) based in the United Kingdom — one of the world’s most reputable organizations in the field of occupational safety. This accreditation enables the Academy to deliver internationally recognized training, assess competencies, and award IOSH certificates, which are valid not only in Azerbaijan but worldwide.
The meeting also focused on the key cooperation areas between AHIK and ILO/ACTRAV, including digital learning, social dialogue, occupational safety, gender equality, and the empowerment of youth and women. The modernization of trade unions in line with the needs of the contemporary labour market was highlighted as a significant step forward.
Mr. Glovackas mentioned about success of AHIK’s activities, underlined the high level of existing cooperation, and shared his views on future directions for expanding the partnership.
Later, at the event held at the Centre for Professional Development and Capacity Building of the Academy with the participation of faculty members. Mr. Yashar Hamzayev, ILO National Coordinator in Azerbaijan, stressed the importance of advancing cooperation between the two institutions and noted the country’s commitment to upholding international labour rights standards.
Ms. Khayala Mammadova, Vice-Rector for International Relations of the Academy, delivered a presentation on the university’s structure, educational innovations, and partnerships with organizations such as BP, the Islamic Labour Center, the University of York, and the ILO Turin International Training Centre.
At the conclusion of the event, AHIK and ACTRAV signed a Declaration of Cooperation aimed at advancing and strengthening trade union education and further developing the Academy of Labour and Social Relations.
The Declaration envisions the enhancement of trade union members’ professional skills, the integration of digital platforms and tools, and the establishment of a unified regional education portal. It also provides for awareness-raising and exchange programmes with the participation of ILO experts to encourage greater youth engagement in academic and social initiatives.
