Khazar University Baku, Azerbaijan — On 6 February 2026, a distinguished panel discussion titled “AI, Digitalization, and the Future of Higher Education” brought together leaders from government, academia, innovation, and industry to engage with students and experts on how emerging technologies are transforming education and labour markets.

The event featured distinguished representatives including Kamran Agayev, Director of the Data Management Department at the Innovation and Digital Development Agency; Nargiz Hajiyeva, Country Director of the British Council in Azerbaijan; Laman Ibrahimova, Head of ASAN AI Hub; Gloria Shkurti Ozdemir, Director of the Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence (ETAI) Research Center at Khazar University; Aziza Vidadi, Head of the Analysis and Monitoring Department at the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution; and Aygul Bayramova, Head of the Data Science and AI Division, Retail Credit Risk Management Department at Unibank., leading innovation centres, international education organisations, data governance experts, and industry specialists. The discussions focused on how artificial intelligence is reshaping learning, skills development, recruitment practices, and national education strategies.

Experts referenced global trends showing that AI is driving major shifts in education systems and labour markets. International reports signal that technology-driven transformation is creating new roles while redefining traditional ones, requiring education systems to adapt curricula, teaching approaches, and assessment models to prepare students for future opportunities.

Key themes included building resilient ecosystems that connect policy, universities, innovation hubs, and industry; closing gaps between academic training and labour market needs; and ensuring ethical and inclusive AI adoption. Panelists also highlighted the importance of human-centred skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and ethical judgment—competencies reinforced by international organisations as essential for the future of work and education.

Addressing students directly, panelists encouraged active engagement with AI tools while maintaining academic integrity, lifelong learning habits, and a strategic approach to career planning. The event underscored Azerbaijan’s commitment to advancing national digital and AI competencies in line with global best practices.

The panel concluded with a call for greater collaboration across sectors to ensure that AI supports inclusive, ethical, and innovation-driven education pathways for students entering higher education and the modern workforce.