Shahin Bayramov, Rector of Qarabağ University, participated in the II Rectors’ Forum of Higher Education Institutions of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, held on April 6 in Almaty.

Prior to the official opening of the Forum, a meeting was held between Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, with the participation of university leaders and representatives of relevant institutions. The parties discussed current issues related to the development of interstate cooperation in higher education, including academic mobility, joint educational programs, and the expansion of partnership relations.

In his opening address, Sayasat Nurbek emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening academic ties between the two countries. He noted that the initiatives undertaken have provided new impetus to mutual academic engagement and have increased bilateral interest in the educational opportunities offered by both countries. He further stated that 62 universities in Kazakhstan are currently cooperating with 81 universities in Azerbaijan, and that within the framework of the Forum, the signing of 63 new memoranda between 18 Azerbaijani and 29 Kazakhstani universities is planned.

Minister Sayasat Nurbek also highlighted the growth in academic mobility and student exchange, noting that as of the end of 2025, 333 Azerbaijani citizens are studying at 58 universities in Kazakhstan, while 164 Kazakhstani citizens are enrolled in Azerbaijani universities.

In his remarks, Emin Amrullayev underlined that the II Rectors’ Forum serves as an important platform for advancing academic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. According to the Minister, the expansion of inter-university relations in recent years, along with the increase in joint programs and academic mobility, demonstrates the tangible outcomes of this collaboration.

He expressed confidence that the new agreements to be signed within the framework of the Forum will further strengthen partnerships and create new opportunities for students and academic staff.

Following the official opening ceremony, a signing ceremony of memoranda of understanding was held, aimed at enhancing academic exchange, scientific cooperation, and the development of joint educational programs.