Interview with Mr. Elshad Novruzov - Advisor-Secretary of the Republican Committee of the Trade Union of Science and Education Workers and Head of the Sports Delegation

• Would you introduce yourself to the readers of the newspaper “Uchitelsko Delo”?

Elshad Novruzov – Advisor-Secretary of the Republican Committee of the Trade Union of Science and Education Workers, Head of the Sports Delegation.

• Could you present your organization?

The Trade Union of Science and Education Workers (TUSEW), a member of the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation (ATUC), is the largest sectoral trade union organization in the country. It represents more than 400,000 members, bringing together 5,722 primary organizations and 148 trade union committees.

• What impressions will you take away from the 21st International Field-day of Teachers?

First of all, I would like to extend to the readers of “Uchitelsko Delo” and to the Organizing Committee the warm greetings of Mr. Sahib Mammadov, Chairman of ATUC and Vice President of ITUC, and Mr. Araz Pashayev, Chairman of TUSEW.

This is not the first time our organization has participated in the International Field-day of Teachers organized by the Bulgarian Union of Teachers (SEB) and the BWF Sport and Health. Once again, we were received with great warmth and hospitality. We highly appreciate the personal invitation of Ms. Yanka Takeva, Chairperson of SEB, and we are grateful for the excellent organization, the modern sports facilities, the opportunities for professional exchange, and the platform provided to demonstrate our sporting skills, determination, and team spirit.

Compared with previous years, our results this time were particularly commendable. Our delegation returned home with several trophies and medals. The women’s team won first place in table tennis and also secured third place in the same discipline. In addition, our representatives achieved fourth place in men’s chess, while the women’s teams earned fourth place in both basketball and beach volleyball. In the overall team standings, our 25-member delegation ranked 10th, and our women were proudly awarded this year’s “Fair Play” Cup.

In my view, these competitions extend far beyond sporting achievements. They serve as a manifestation of international solidarity, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and a celebration of friendship and cooperation among education and science workers from different countries. On behalf of our organization, I would once again like to express our sincere gratitude to the Organizing Committee for their dedication and professionalism.

• In just a few days, the new academic year will begin. What are the main priorities that will guide the activities of education workers’ trade union organizations in Azerbaijan?

The new academic year in Azerbaijan also begins on September 15. Following the election of a new chairperson and leadership team, we have defined several strategic priorities. These include the protection of the socio-economic rights of our members, the establishment of legal aid clinics, ensuring occupational safety, and supporting low-income and vulnerable groups. Another important priority is the implementation of training programs and development initiatives aimed at strengthening the knowledge and skills of students and young teachers, thereby preparing them for the challenges of a rapidly evolving educational environment.

• Could you tell us about the salaries of education and science workers, as well as the social support provided to them?

The salaries of education and science workers are determined according to their professional experience, qualifications, and performance outcomes. As a trade union, we complement this system by supporting teachers’ continuous professional development through specialized courses, training programs, and seminars.

Equally important is our commitment to their health and well-being. We provide opportunities for them to attend sanatoriums and recreation centres, and we work to expand the prevention and rehabilitation of occupational diseases. In addition, to enrich the social and cultural lives of our members, we organize camps, tourism programs, academic exchange projects, festivals, and sports events. These initiatives strengthen community spirit among union members and contribute to the overall personal and professional growth of education and science workers.