An international scientific-practical conference was held on the topic "The Past, Present and Future of Architectural Education in Azerbaijan" at the Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction (AUAC), dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the higher education institution. Deputy Director of the State Agency for Science and Higher Education, Acting Rector of Sumgayit State University, Corresponding Member of ANAS, Aminaga Sadigov participated in the event and said that architectural education in Azerbaijan has a rich past, a dynamic current state and great prospects. He noted that architecture is not only an indicator of the beauty of buildings, but also of the way of thinking, culture and development of society.
Aminaga Sadigov emphasized that the large-scale construction projects implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the restoration and reconstruction of Karabakh, open up great opportunities and place great responsibility on the Azerbaijani architectural school. He noted that digital technologies - BIM, 3D modeling, virtual reality - are becoming an integral part of the educational process. Students gain practical skills not only through theoretical knowledge, but also by working on real projects. Targeted internship programs, cooperation with architectural bureaus, and opportunities to participate in international competitions allow students to get to know the global architectural environment closely. At the same time, the main challenges of modern architecture - an ecological approach, sustainable development, and the preservation of national architectural heritage - are at the heart of the educational programs. In conclusion, Aminaga Sadigov said that artificial intelligence and generative design will further accelerate the design process, the "smart city" concept will reshape urban planning, and "green architecture" will prioritize ecological values. At the opening of the conference, the rector of AUAC, Doctor of Architecture, Professor Gulchohra Mammadova provided detailed information about the historical development of the university, the formation of architectural education and the achievements achieved in this field, and drew attention to the importance of adapting architectural education to global challenges in the modern era. Representatives of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan, and other organizations also spoke at the event and spoke about the reforms being carried out in architectural education, integration with international standards, and work being done to improve the quality of personnel training.