The event was attended by diverse group included esteemed ministry representatives, representatives from several UN agencies, members of academia, private sector professionals, and representatives from non-governmental organizations.
During the exhibition held as part of this event, there was a showcase where food products from approximately 10 companies, along with those represented by participants of the certificate program from Italy-Azerbaijan University, Italian organizations, and the "Taste of the Homeland" brand (which received support from FAO), were tasted and presented. Product presentation exemplifies that food is more than just a daily necessity, that everyone involved in agricultural production contributes to food security, and that these individuals are food heroes. FAO's role in this area is to increase the efficiency of these heroes' daily agricultural work and to expand its role in food security and safety.
At the event, ADA University Rector Hafiz Pashayev delivered opening remarks and stated that the agricultural sector holds significant importance within the economy of Azerbaijan. This domain encompasses more than the mere manufacturing of food items. The practice of agriculture plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the food security of a nation:
"Our goal in establishing this faculty is to train competitive personnel in the agricultural field, prepare professionals who can bring scientific and technical progress and innovation."
In his speech, the Minister of Agriculture, Majnun Mammadov, emphasized that the establishment of the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences will facilitate the application of diverse experiences and comparative analysis.
"I am sure that the opening of the new faculty will help us to deepen our analyses on ensuring food and food safety, efficient management of water resources and other important areas of agriculture, expand our scientific research potential in relevant fields, and achieve the set goals and will make an exceptional contribution by increasing the effectiveness of our efforts," stated Minister Majnun Mammadov.
Zakiya Mustafayeva, Deputy Chairperson of the Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA), stated in her speech that the current climate changes, changing consumer habits, depletion of water resources, scientific and technological advancements, new food sources, and production processes are among the significant challenges facing food and food safety in the future. Taking adequate measures against obstacles is only possible with high potential personnel. In this regard, Z. Mustafayeva appreciated the establishment of the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences. In order to effectively establish the work of the faculty, it is necessary to prepare educational programs, exchange mutual knowledge and experience, involve students in scientific research and experience programs, scientific research works, and joint projects, and the Deputy Chairperson of the Agency stated that AFSA is willing to collaborate with ADA University in organizing events.
Mr. Muhammad Nasar Hayat, Representative of FAO in Azerbaijan, spoke about the global factors affecting sustainable agriculture, water, and food security, and he emphasized the significance of protecting our future through the proper use of water. In addition, he congratulated the United Nations' celebration of International Rural Women's Day on October 15, stating, "When rural women have fair access to resources and education, they become powerful agents of change." He concluded by congratulating everyone on the occasion of World Food Day, the opening of the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences, and the International Day of Rural Women. At the conclusion of the speech, the video appeal of FAO Director General Dr. Gu Dong Yu was released.
Following the speech by the Italian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mr. Claudio Taffuri and the video address of Rector of University of Bologna, Mr. Giovanni Molari, the Dean of the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Dr. Matteo Vittuari, provided information about the school, and upcoming bachelor's and master's degree programs starting in 2024.
The event proceeded with the seminar.
It should be noted that October 16 is the World Food Day, which focuses global attention on food safety and sustainable food development. The theme for 2023 is "Water is life, Water is food".
Additionally, it should be noted that School of Agricultural and Food Sciences was founded based on cooperation between the University of Bologna within the initiative of Italy-Azerbaijan University. The School offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in the field.
The bachelor's and master's degree programs, scheduled to begin in 2024, will be delivered at ADA University's Baku campus, as well as its regional centers located in Gazakh and Ganja.
