On March 4-5, 2025, Nakhchivan State University (NSU) hosted the First Republican Scientific Conference on "Inclusive Education: Achievements and Challenges Ahead," dedicated to the "Year of Constitution and Sovereignty." The conference served as a significant platform for deliberating the advancement of inclusive education and evaluating progress in this critical domain. The prestigious event was jointly organized by various higher education institutions across the country, including Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University, Baku Slavic University, and Khazar University, with substantial support from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.
During the opening ceremony, Aygun Verdiyeva, Acting Dean of the School of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences at Khazar University, delivered a comprehensive presentation on "Characteristics of Inclusive Education." Her discourse encompassed an in-depth analysis of the obstacles encountered in implementing inclusive education and strategic objectives for future development in this sphere.
Within the conference framework, additional representatives from Khazar University addressed various aspects of inclusive education. University instructor Aynur Abdullayeva presented on "Application of Polish Experience for Social Adaptation of Young Schoolchildren with Limited Health Capabilities," emphasizing methodologies for effectively integrating international best practices in this field.
The event culminated with the inaugural opening of the NSU Inclusive Education Center. The Center's Director, Associate Professor Taleh Khalilov, Ph.D. in Pedagogy, elucidated the center's mission and operational directions, highlighting the establishment of educational support and rehabilitation facilities specifically designed for students requiring specialized care.
At the conclusion of the conference, commemorative plaques were presented to the organizers and partner universities in recognition of their contributions. Participants were subsequently invited to view handcrafted works prepared by students at NSU's Technology Center.