An info-session was held at MSU regarding the REFRESH Erasmus+ project coordinated by UNEC

In a forward-looking initiative, Mingachevir State University (MSU) conducted a comprehensive information session on February 29, 2024, shedding light on the Erasmus+ project titled "Green and sustainable global economic improvement at Azerbaijani Universities: renewable energy and climate change mitigation" (REFRESH). The project is under the coordination of the Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC).

The gathering, attended by a diverse group of MSU faculty members, students, and graduate students, served as a platform to disseminate key insights about the REFRESH project. The information session was facilitated by Samira Ahmadova, the Coordinator of the International Cooperation Office at MSU, who shared her experiences from a visit to the University of Bologna in Italy from December 4-8, 2023.

During the session, Ahmadova provided a comprehensive overview of the REFRESH project, outlining its primary goals and objectives. She emphasized that the initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of universities by engaging teaching staff in trainer programs to improve teaching methodologies and curriculum development. Additionally, the project seeks to initiate pilot courses within partner higher education institutions.

Highlighting the broader scope, Ahmadova underlined the ambitious mission of the "REFRESH" project, which boasts a total cost of 703 thousand euros. The project, spanning a duration of three years, aligns closely with the strategic document "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development." Its primary focus is on national personnel training within universities, particularly in the realm of renewable energy sources.

The consortium behind the REFRESH project is composed of 15 partners, including six local universities, four European institutions (University of Barcelona in Spain, University of Bologna in Italy, Royal University of Technology in Sweden, Technical University of Denmark), and non-governmental organizations.

Ahmadova emphasized the significance of university participation in such collaborative projects, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping and preparing a new generation of skilled professionals for the country. The informative session at Mingachevir State University reflects a commitment to sustainable development and academic collaboration, setting the stage for transformative initiatives in Azerbaijani higher education.