On August 13, 2025, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between Mingachevir State University (MSU) and “Gafgaz-Gabala” Limited Liability Company regarding the training of qualified and professional personnel in the field of tourism. The document was signed by the Rector of MSU, Anar Eminov, and the Director of “Gafgaz-Gabala” LLC, Shabnam Suleymanova.

The Memorandum aims to develop competitive personnel aligned with labor market demands by integrating the theoretical knowledge of students majoring in Tourism Organization, Tourism Guidance, and Tourism and Hospitality with practical skills, and to promote scientific research and innovative approaches within the region’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Accordingly, a delegation led by Rector Anar Eminov visited the Tufandag Hotel located in Gabala. During a round-table meeting held as part of the visit, the parties discussed various directions for joint cooperation.

The meeting focused on the organization of internship programs for students at hotels and other tourism facilities, the participation of hospitality experts as guest lecturers at the university, the implementation of scientific research projects, training on the application of new service technologies, and joint involvement in initiatives aimed at developing the socio-economic and tourism potential of the region.

Rector Anar Eminov stated that this cooperation will provide students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real work environment and gain professional skills in line with the demands of the tourism sector. Noting that the primary goal of Mingachevir State University is to train graduates as competitive professionals in the labor market, the Rector expressed his confidence that this partnership with “Gafgaz-Gabala” LLC will create extensive practical experience opportunities for students and make a significant contribution to their future careers.

Shabnam Suleymanova, Director of “Gafgaz-Gabala” LLC, described the cooperation established with MSU as a successful step in terms of the efficient use of the region’s tourism potential, the training of qualified personnel, and the improvement of service quality. Viewing the development of professional staff as a strategic priority, the Director stated that the partnership with MSU would not only provide internship opportunities for students but also play an exceptional role in attracting new, creative, and skilled specialists to the tourism sector.

Following the meeting, the participants toured the material-technical base and service facilities of the “Gafgaz Riverside Hotel.”

​According to the memorandum, the parties will cooperate in the fields of education, internship, scientific research, innovation, and human resources development. Joint seminars, conferences, and career events will also be organized. To ensure the implementation of the cooperation, a joint Coordination Commission will be established. Furthermore, students majoring in Tourism Organization, Tourism Guidance, and Tourism and Hospitality will be provided with internship opportunities at hotels and other tourism enterprises owned by “Gafgaz-Gabala” LLC.