The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) has officially launched its Education & Vocational Working Group, a strategic initiative designed to enhance cooperation between the private sector, educational institutions, universities, NGOs, and families. The Working Group is chaired by Francesco Banchini, an experienced educational leader and advocate for public–private partnerships in learning and workforce development.
The Education Working Group will serve as a platform for companies and educational organizations to work together in shaping the future skills, capabilities, and opportunities needed for Azerbaijan’s evolving economy. Through this collaborative framework, AmCham aims to support students’ career pathways, strengthen school–industry engagement, and promote inclusive and forward-thinking educational practices across the country.
Chairperson Francesco Banchini emphasized the importance of aligning education with economic and technological trends. “Education is a long-term investment in Azerbaijan’s future workforce. By building bridges between companies, educators, and families, we can create real opportunities that prepare young people for tomorrow’s challenges and empower them to thrive,” he said.
The Working Group will focus on several key areas, including:
- Future skills and innovation — supporting students in developing competencies required in emerging fields such as AI, digitalisation, and green technologies.
- Career readiness and employability — providing real-world exposure through mentorship, internships, and industry engagement.
- Family and community partnerships — helping parents better understand global competencies and the evolving career landscape.
- Sustainability and social responsibility — encouraging student involvement in environmental and community initiatives.
- Educational equity and access — supporting outreach programmes for students in underserved regions through partnerships with NGOs and institutions.
- Policy dialogue — facilitating constructive discussions between the private sector and government stakeholders on improving educational frameworks and opportunities.
Through this initiative, AmCham Azerbaijan aims to contribute to a stronger national talent pipeline, equip young people with relevant skills, and encourage companies to play an active role in supporting educational development.