Video recordings ensure transparency in arts exams

All performances and visual artworks in Azerbaijan’s talent admission exams are now recorded on video and published online alongside official scores to ensure fairness and transparency, said Maleyka Abbaszade, head of the State Examination Center (SEC).

"Previously, evaluations were carried out only by a five-member commission. Now the entire process is digital, and samples with scores are made public," Abbaszade stated.

She noted that while some teachers may recognize their students’ style, all grading is conducted anonymously. If bias is detected, the evaluator is held accountable and publicly named.

Abbaszade said some parents and candidates oppose the video recording, but insisted it is essential for a transparent and lawful process. "If someone wants to be on stage, they must be ready for openness in exams as well," she added.

She stressed that the appeals process is not a second attempt: “Some say, ‘I didn’t perform well, let me play again.’ But appeals are not a new chance — they are for reviewing the existing performance.”

The same rules apply to sports talent exams, where results are based strictly on official exam-day performance. "Even world champions don’t set records during training — only during competition," she said.

Abbaszade concluded that anonymous grading and video archives help maintain fairness: “No one should get a second chance while others get only one. Equality must be preserved.”