A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Baku State University (BSU) and the international television channel AnewZ, marking a new stage of cooperation in journalism education and media development.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, BSU Rector Elchin Babayev highlighted the long-standing academic tradition and training capacity of the university’s Faculty of Journalism. He said close cooperation with media organisations plays a crucial role in preparing professional journalists in Azerbaijan.
According to Babayev, integrating leading media institutions into the educational process significantly improves the quality of journalism training. He noted that BSU already works closely with several prominent media organisations, including Media Development Agency, Press Council, AZERTAC, ARB24 and “Xalq qazeti”.
He also underlined that BSU operates seven specialised classrooms, as well as dedicated television and radio training studios that support practical journalism education.
AnewZ’s growing international presence
The rector praised AnewZ for its objective, impartial and timely reporting, saying the channel has earned recognition among both local and international audiences. He added that cooperation with the broadcaster would contribute significantly to the development of English-language journalism, which he described as an essential requirement of the modern media landscape.
Executive Director of AnewZ Rufat Hamzayev said the broadcaster operates in line with international media standards as a professional English-language news channel.
Founded in 2024, AnewZ is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for English-language journalism in Azerbaijan and is currently broadcast in more than 110 countries.
Hamzayev said the channel has become a trusted source not only for local media but also within the wider global information space. With correspondent offices in 11 countries, AnewZ produces reports from more than 40 cities worldwide. The broadcaster employs around 140 staff and has the capacity to gather and distribute news globally.
He also noted that AnewZ is the only broadcaster applying artificial intelligence solutions across at least seven operational areas.
Focus on student training
Hamzayev said cooperation with BSU, Azerbaijan’s leading institution for journalism education, would further strengthen the development of English-language media in the country.
According to him, more than 10 BSU students are currently undertaking internships at AnewZ. The broadcaster also regularly organises media tours for students, helping them gain practical experience and supporting their future career development.
Future cooperation
During the meeting, participants exchanged views on the main areas of cooperation outlined in the memorandum and discussed potential joint initiatives.
At the end of the event, the AnewZ delegation toured the infrastructure and technical facilities of BSU’s Faculty of Journalism, including its specialised training spaces and media production resources.
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