On December 24, 2025, a volleyball tournament among regional universities dedicated to the cherished memory of Azerbaijan’s National Hero Natig Gasimov was held through the joint organization of Mingachevir State University and the Central Aran Regional Youth and Sports Department.

The tournament, held at the university’s Sports and Health Complex, was attended by Head of the Mingachevir City Executive Authority Ilham Ismayilov, Chairperson of the Mingachevir City Organization of the New Azerbaijan Party Bakhtiyar Mustafayev, representatives of the city municipality, family members of the National Hero, Director of Secondary School No. 4 named after Natig Gasimov Zaur Museyibov, academic and administrative staff, students, and members of the public from Mingachevir State University, UNEC Zagatala Branch, Ganja State University, and Azerbaijan Technological University.

First, the cherished memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, National Hero Natig Gasimov, and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of Azerbaijani lands was honored with a one-minute silence, followed by the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Delivering the opening speech of the event, Head of the Mingachevir City Executive Authority Ilham Ismayilov welcomed the participants and highly appreciated the organization of such a sports competition dedicated to the memory of National Hero Natig Gasimov. He emphasized that such initiatives play an exceptional role in instilling patriotism among young people and promoting the recognition of national heroes.

The Head of the Executive Authority noted that sports are not only important for physical health but also serve as a vital means of developing perseverance and a sense of national unity among young people. Stating that the heroism and sacrifice of figures such as Natig Gasimov are exemplary for the younger generation, he expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the tournament.

At the end of his speech, Ilham Ismayilov sincerely congratulated all participants on the occasion of December 31 – Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year, wishing them good health and success in their future activities.

Afterwards, Rector Anar Eminov of Mingachevir State University stated that the tournament, which brought together regional universities, serves as a bridge of friendship and cooperation among higher education institutions. The rector emphasized that one of the university’s main priorities is to ensure that students not only acquire academic knowledge but also grow up devoted to national and moral values and in the spirit of patriotism. He noted that the tournament named after the National Hero would leave an unforgettable impression on young people and wished success to all teams.

Speaking at the event, Nofal Gasimov, brother of National Hero Natig Gasimov, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family to the country’s leadership and the organizers for the attention and respect shown. He emphasized that it is a source of pride that the heroism and honorable combat path of Natig Gasimov are highly valued by young people today. Addressing the athletes, N. Gasimov advised them always to remain strong and unconquerable like Natig.

In his speech, Head of the Central Aran Regional Youth and Sports Department Azad Gozalov spoke about the state’s attention to youth policy and the development of sports. He noted that such regional tournaments play an important role in identifying talented young people and creating a healthy competitive environment among them. A. Gozalov also highlighted the importance of making the tournament dedicated to the memory of the National Hero a traditional event.

Following the speeches, the tournament officially began. Volleyball teams representing Mingachevir State University, UNEC Zagatala Branch, Ganja State University, and Azerbaijan Technological University competed for first place.

According to the final results of the tournament, the team of Ganja State University won first place, the team of Mingachevir State University secured second place, the team of UNEC Zagatala Branch finished in third place, and the team of Azerbaijan Technological University took fourth place.

At the end of the event, the winning teams and distinguished athletes were awarded medals and diplomas of respective degrees.

It should be noted that a series of events dedicated to the cherished memory of National Hero Natig Gasimov are being held at Mingachevir State University.