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Inclusive Training and Education Center opens in Baku - PHOTO

19 October 2026 14:34 (UTC +04:00)

The Inclusive Training and Education Centre has been established at the Baku State Vocational Education Centre for Culture and Crafts under the “SkillBridge – Inclusive Education for Inclusive Employment” project, APA reports.

The opening ceremony was attended by Alena Aliyeva; Deputy Minister of Science and Education Firudin Gurbanov; Head of the Khazar District Executive Authority Elshan Salahov; Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Indira Hajiyeva; Executive Director of SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC Polad Rustamov; MP Soltan Mammadov; and representatives of government agencies, project partners, and civil society organizations.

The event opened with the national anthem. Aytan Eynalova, founder of the “Birgə və Sağlam” Public Union, highlighted the organization’s work supporting people with autism and their families and raising public awareness.

“SkillBridge” Project Manager Hazi Eynalov said the new centre is designed to strengthen the vocational skills of people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals, support their integration into the labour market, and expand their employment opportunities.

The centre has four workshops equipped with modern facilities and suitable conditions for inclusive education. Planned courses cover graphic design, web design and software development, interior and exterior design, wood carving, sales, and cashier-supervisor operations. Practical training in confectionery, barista skills, and clerical work is also provided to neurodivergent young people in a workshop operated by the “Birgə və Sağlam” Public Union.

The project targets 200 assessments, 100 participants in training programmes, and employment for at least 60 people.

A video highlighting the project’s objectives and the centre’s activities was then screened.

In his remarks, Elshan Salahov underlined the importance of educational development, equal opportunities for children, and inclusive education.

Deputy Minister Firudin Gurbanov highlighted the need to ensure access to education for all, remove physical barriers, and equip graduates with practical skills for the labour market. Polad Rustamov stressed that inclusive education and employment are essential to helping young people develop their abilities and secure jobs.

Ilgar Bayramli, head of the State Agency for Vocational Education, reported that more than 5,000 educational opportunities had been provided to people with disabilities between 2023 and 2026. Their enrolment reached 1,400 in the current academic year, up 40 percent from 2023. He added that the new centre would help bridge the gap between vocational training and employment.

Deputy Minister Indira Hajiyeva and MP Soltan Mammadov also addressed the event.

Two neurodivergent young people shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of inclusive education and vocational skills for independent living.

Guests toured the centre’s facilities and workshops.

Implemented by the “Birgə və Sağlam” Public Union, the SkillBridge project is supported by the State Agency for Vocational Education, SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC, and South Caucasus Pipeline partners. It aims to strengthen the vocational skills and economic independence of people with disabilities and promote inclusive employment.