Azerbaijan’s Success at ISEF

Students from Azerbaijan have won medals and special jury awards at the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the United States, underscoring the country’s growing focus on science and technology education as part of its drive to diversify the economy.

The annual competition, held this year in Phoenix, Arizona from May 9 to 15, is considered one of the world’s largest and most competitive science fairs for school students, attracting participants from dozens of countries with projects in engineering, artificial intelligence, environmental science, and advanced mathematics.

According to the competition results, bronze medals were awarded to Banu Ibrahimova, a 10th-grade student at Secondary School-Lyceum No. 6 named after Tofiq Ismayilov in Baku, and Mikayil Ahmadbayli, a 9th-grade student at the same school.

Two other Azerbaijani students — Omar Abdullayev from Secondary School No. 39 named after Mir Jalal Pashayev in Ganja and Salman Sadikhzade from Secondary School No. 2 named after Ahmad Javad, also in Ganja — received special jury awards.

The recognition comes amid Azerbaijan’s intensified efforts to strengthen human capital and expand its non-oil economy through investments in education, digital infrastructure, and technological innovation. Increasing attention is being devoted to STEM education — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — particularly among younger generations.

In recent years, state initiatives have included the creation of specialized technology parks, digital skills development programs, and expanded support for international academic competitions. Authorities are increasingly portraying innovation and advanced education as essential pillars of Azerbaijan’s long-term economic strategy.

The annual ISEF competition, held in the United States, has become a key global platform for identifying promising scientific talent. Winners of the competition often continue their studies at leading international universities and participate in research programs linked to major technology companies and scientific institutions.

The latest achievements of Azerbaijani students are likely to reinforce official claims that the country is gradually building a more innovation-driven economy alongside its traditional energy sector.