Azerconnect Group and Media Development Agency host joint Media Forum

A media forum titled “Media of Tomorrow: Building on the Heritage of ‘Akinchi’” was held for young journalists on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Azerbaijani national press, jointly organized by Azerconnect Group and the Media Development Agency.

The forum aimed to support the professional development of young people in the media field by facilitating meetings and exchanges of views with experienced media professionals and enhancing their practical knowledge in digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). The event brough together representatives from the public and private sectors, leading national media organizations, higher education institutions, and students specializing in journalism and communication.

Emil Masimov, Chief Executive Officer at Azerconnect Group in his opening remarks at the forum, stressed the crucial contribution of the media in upholding national interests during the most critical periods of the country’s history. He pointed out that in today’s digital era, the nature of media is undergoing a profound transformation – a change driven in large part by the creativity and adaptability of the younger generation.

In his address, Ahmad Ismayilov, Executive Director of the Media Development Agency, emphasized that Azerbaijan provides an enabling environment for young people to showcase their talents and fulfil their potential. He voiced his belief that the dedication of these young talents will contribute to the growth of national media and the development of informed public opinion.

Speaking at the forum, Chairman of the Press Council Rashad Majid highlighted the historical evolution of the Azerbaijani national press, beginning with the ‘Akinchi’ newspaper. He stated that this enduring legacy continues to guide the media’s mission and plays a key role in nurturing future journalists. 

The panel session “A look at the Media of Tomorrow: Journalism as the Profession of the Future”, moderated by Saida Shafiyeva, Head of Communications Department at the Media Development Agency, featured contributions from Ramin Jafarov, Head of BAKU TV; Orkhan Mammadli, Head of APA TV; Aziz Akhundov, Director of Corporate Communications at Azerconnect Group; Gunel Abilova, Editor-in-Chief of Qafqazinfo.az; and Ulvi Safarov, Editor-in-Chief of Oxu.az. The discussion covered innovative practices in journalism, and the role of AI in shaping the industry, ongoing digital transformation, and the core competencies journalists will need in the future to come. Speakers also stressed the strategic importance of journalism for society and the need to encourage young people to pursue careers in the media.

During the one-on-one session titled “Media Professionalism and Next-Generation Journalism,” held as part of the forum, Vusala Mahirqizi, General Director at APA Holding, stressed the need to reinforce ethical standards, adopt new technologies, and maintain effective communication with the public in today’s evolving information ecosystem. She noted that journalism remains a key pillar in the development of society.

As part of the program, Saadat Ismayilova, Head of the Human Resources Department at Global Media Group, led a training session titled “Employment Opportunities for Youth in Modern Media,” and Abdulla Abdullayev, SMM and AI trainer at SAT Group, conducted a session on the “Role of AI in Journalism.” Through these sessions, students acquired valuable knowledge on the impact of innovation in journalism, the professional standards required in today’s digital media environment, and potential career paths in the field. 

Forum participants met with leading media figures to discuss the industry’s future, guided by real experiences and practical insights.  
Nearly 100 students from ADA University, Baku State University, Baku Slavic University, Azerbaijan University of Languages, and other institutions with an interest in journalism and communication participated in the forum.

As a company operating in the dynamically developing ICT and high technologies fields of our country, Azerconnect Group delivers advanced solutions, including Mobile, Internet, and International leased lines provisioning, alongside cutting-edge digital services in FinTech, AdTech, and Media/TV. Azerconnect Group is part of NEQSOL Holding, an international group of companies operating in various countries across the energy, telecommunications, hi-tech, and construction industries.