StrategEast, in partnership with the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA) and Oracle, celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of its Digital Level UP program in Azerbaijan. The Closing Ceremony, held on April 7, 2025 at the Azerbaijan Innovation Center in Baku, marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to build a digitally skilled workforce.
Over the course of four intensive months, 72 carefully selected students received high-level training in Data Science, DevOps, and Software Functional Testing, supported by full access to the Oracle learning platform. The program, designed to boost digital competencies, also provided students with the opportunity to earn globally recognized Oracle certifications.
The event was opened by Ms. Nigar Mammadova, Head of the Development of Digital Competencies Department at IDDA, who emphasized the critical role such initiatives play in preparing young professionals for the demands of Azerbaijan’s digital future.
Notably, 11 top-performing students successfully passed the Oracle Certified Professional exams in Data Science and DevOps, while participants collectively earned more than 100 Oracle Associate certificates—a major achievement in technical upskilling for the region.
StrategEast Program Manager Gunay Hajili led a dedicated Interview Preparation Workshop during the event, equipping graduates with essential tools to navigate the job market and transition into professional roles with confidence.
Two program graduates also took the stage to share their personal journeys, highlighting the technical expertise, career motivation, and sense of community they gained through the program.
Representatives from Oracle’s Baku office, including Rashad Aliyev and Jabi Aghayev, were present to personally award the Professional Certificates to the program’s top achievers. In addition, all 72 graduates received Certificates of Achievement presented by Ms. Mammadova and Ms. Hajili. Forty students participated in the ceremony in person, while digital certificates were sent to those attending remotely, with options available to collect printed versions at a later date.
StrategEast announced that the second cohort of the Digital Level UP program will begin in mid-April and run for another four months, continuing the mission to empower Azerbaijan’s next generation of tech professionals.
