Geographical Education and Research Innovation: Collaborative Climate Adaptation Strategies in Azerbaijan
This project, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) under the “Higher Education Dialogue with the Muslim World” programme, brings together academic and non-academic partners in Germany and Azerbaijan to collaboratively tackle the growing challenges of climate change. Led by the Department of Geography at Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU), and in cooperation with the Institute of Geography at the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, Baku State University, and the Azerbaijan Geographical Society (NGO), the initiative runs from January 2025 to December 2026.
Azerbaijan is increasingly affected by climate-related disruptions—particularly in agriculturally dependent regions like Shaki-Zagatala. To address these pressing issues, the project focuses on modernizing geography education, building research capacity, and promoting inclusive, locally grounded climate adaptation strategies. Through participatory and practice-oriented approaches, the initiative integrates traditional knowledge and engages directly with affected communities.
Key objectives include:
- Revising geography curricula at Azerbaijani universities with a focus on climate adaptation, sustainability, and local relevance
- Enhancing research competencies, especially in participatory methods, through joint workshops, digital seminars, and field-based training
- Establishing national teaching and research networks to ensure long-term impact and collaboration
- Strengthening intercultural dialogue through academic exchange, especially among students and early-career researchers
By combining academic rigor with practical community engagement, the project aims to empower a new generation of geographers in Azerbaijan to lead the development of sustainable solutions to climate challenges. At the same time, it strengthens academic partnerships, intercultural competence, and shared responsibility between German and Azerbaijani institutions.