BP is the exclusive Official Partner of the Games Academy initiative. This innovative learning program aimed to support the creation of a capability legacy in Azerbaijan by developing national staff members for managing events. 

In July 2014, the program selected 162 Azerbaijani and 26 international high potential university graduates, preparing them for the efficient delivery of major multi-sport events and developing skills which will assist them in their future career.

The Graduate Excellence Program included six training modules with a focus on important skills and knowledge required for the successful delivery of the 1st European Games. During the training all of the participants were mentored by experienced international team members, including experts in a variety of specialist fields to ensure that their learning continues on the job.

The participants were also provided with opportunities to continue hands-on, practical experience in planning the Games and with operational roles at test events. In addition, opportunities were provided for learning through experiencing other major sports events. 

Addressing the certificates presentation ceremony held in Baku today, Ian Sutherland, BP’s Regional Vice President, said: "BP is pleased to be part of this very important capacity-building initiative, which we are confident will leave a long legacy, supporting Azerbaijan’s plans to host future sporting events. We believe the success of the inaugural European Games has exceeded all expectations and I applaud the contribution of the participants in the Games Academy to this success, joining their efforts with those of the entire Games Family. 

"We in BP were involved in many parts of the preparations for the Games. We were the Official Oil and Gas Partner of the Baku Games building on our experience of partnering with the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In addition, we sponsored top Azerbaijani Olympians and Paralympians, providing them and their coaches with elite athlete development training by the Michael Johnson Performance Centre. And we supported the Games Academy to enhance the nation’s capability to deliver world-class events of the future. We are proud to see the success of our Ambassador Athletes and Games Academy graduates, and share the country’s excitement for such a great national achievement both as a host country and participant.”