Experts discuss potential for science and innovation to boost sustainable agriculture in Azerbaijan

A science-based approach to agricultural systems combined with innovation fosters resilience that can help humanity address various crises and produce more equitable and environmentally friendly agrifood systems.

An event on the role of science and innovation in ensuring food security was held 3 October 2023 at Azerbaijan State Agrarian University in Ganja, as part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Regional Science and Innovation Week for Europe and Central Asia. The event was jointly organized by the FAO Partnership and Liaison Office in Azerbaijan and Azerbaijan State Agrarian University.

The purpose of the event was to identify and discuss existing gaps and challenges within the agricultural sector by engaging experts, academicians and government bodies in a dialogue about potential solutions through the application of novel techniques and innovative methodologies. The establishment of this forum inside the university environment facilitated the dissemination of useful knowledge derived from talks among the students.

Event highlights 

Mr Zafar Gurbanov, the rector of Azerbaijan State Agrarian University, stated in his address that the purpose of holding the forum was to analyse the current state of the integration of science and innovation with the agricultural sector in Azerbaijan and to discuss its prospects. According to Mr Gurbanov, Azerbaijan State Agrarian University is interested in the innovative development of the agricultural sector, and efforts are being made in this regard. Additionally, a multitude of initiatives are scheduled for implementation within the university's innovation centre.

Ms Aynur Seidyusif, Partnership and Operations Specialist at FAO, said in her speech that the decline of natural resources, the growing world population and climate change have forced experts to take drastic measures.

“The significance of advancements in scientific research and innovation within the agricultural sector is substantial,” she said. “This pertains not only to the enhancement of productivity but also encompasses the adoption of environmentally sustainable methodologies that promote biodiversity, enable the anticipation of pest dissemination, optimize irrigation techniques, and facilitate the cultivation of drought-resistant crops.”

Mr Anar Jafarov, Director of the Innovation Centre of the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of the event and thanked the organizers. The implementation of agricultural innovations in Azerbaijan is supported by the government, he said. Food security has consistently remained a fundamental concern for humanity, and the adoption of novel technologies has facilitated a transition from conventional farming practices to more advanced and innovative farming methods.

Mr Jafar Maharramov, Deputy Chairman of the Agrarian Services Agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the significance of implementing innovative approaches in the agriculture sector due to the concomitant global climate change phenomena.

“The Azerbaijan State Agrarian University has a bright future for the work to be done in this area,” he said, “because of the presence of scientists with profound fundamental knowledge, a modern material and technical base, and an eager younger generation.”

The two panels – “How science and innovation can contribute to sustainable animal livestock in Azerbaijan: Artificial insemination and embryo transfers” and “Integrated pest control measures and fumigation” – focused on the current practices in Azerbaijan and explored potential future directions. The head of the Republican Artificial Insemination Centre, Mr Elton Abdurrahmanov, discussed the accomplishments of an FAO-supported project that focuses on artificial insemination as a means to enhance the livelihoods of breeders. Dialogues were conducted to address inquiries raised by the participants. At the conclusion, a group photo was taken.