On 24 June 2026, the Second Graduation Ceremony of the participants of the "Support for Girls' Education" project was held through the joint organization of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, the Ministry of Science and Education, and the Education Development Fund.

The event brought together graduates of the "Support for Girls' Education in the Name of Hanifa Malikova-Zardabi" Scholarship Program, the "Confident Steps Toward the Future" Educational Support Program for the Wives of Martyrs, implemented under the "You Are Not Alone" initiative, as well as graduates of other scholarship programs. These programs support female students who have been admitted to higher education institutions with outstanding academic results.

The graduation ceremony was attended by Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Ms. Bahar Muradova, Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs; Mr. Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education; Mr. Nijat Mammadli, Chairman of the Board of the Education Development Fund; rectors of higher education institutions; representatives of the public and private sectors; and the project's graduates.

The event began with the screening of a video dedicated to the project, followed by opening remarks.

Welcoming the participants, Ms. Bahar Muradova emphasized that every woman who is grounded in national and moral values, embraces modernity, receives a high-quality education, and recognizes her social responsibility contributes to the foundation of both the present and future of the nation.

She highlighted the importance of the participation of the event's distinguished guest, Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, noting that her continued attention and sincere support for the project, as well as for the education and advancement of Azerbaijani women in general, are of great significance. Ms. Muradova also stressed that Leyla Aliyeva's initiatives aimed at children and youth serve as a source of inspiration for young girls.

She stated that today's women are the successors to the legacy of prominent Azerbaijani educators such as Hanifa Khanum Zardabi, Hamida Khanum Javanshir, Nigar Khanum Shikhlinskaya, and Shafiqa Khanum Efendizade.

Ms. Muradova noted that the "Support for Girls' Education" project has evolved into a comprehensive development platform encompassing various initiatives. Over the five years of its implementation, a total of 593 young women have benefited from its opportunities. Within the Hanifa Malikova-Zardabi Scholarship Program, 239 female students have received support over the past five years, representing more than 60 cities and districts across the country and 31 higher education institutions.

She also pointed out that the phrase "education in Karabakh" has now become part of the national vocabulary, noting that 10 scholarship recipients are currently studying at Karabakh University.

Ms. Muradova further stated that 22 students have benefited from the "We Have a Dream" Scholarship Program to date. This year, 66 graduates completed their higher education through the project's various scholarship programs.

Including last year's graduates, the project has now produced 125 female graduates, 20 of whom graduated with honors. Ms. Muradova emphasized that one of the most meaningful and emotionally significant components of the initiative is the "You Are Not Alone – Confident Steps Toward the Future" Educational Support Program for the Wives of Martyrs. To date, 34 wives of martyrs have joined the program. She underlined the importance of expanding efforts to support these women—entrusted to the nation by those who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and freedom—in obtaining higher education, becoming qualified professionals, and actively participating in public and social life.

Ms. Muradova noted that under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the development of human capital remains one of the country's key policy priorities. She also highlighted the educational, cultural, and social initiatives of First Vice-President Ms. Mehriban Aliyeva, particularly her work in support of women, children, and education.

She expressed gratitude to the project's partners who are committed to supporting girls' social integration and future employment opportunities.

Concluding her remarks, Ms. Muradova congratulated the graduates on achieving significant success through dedication and hard work. She wished them continued accomplishments in their professional careers and personal lives, encouraging them to remain committed to preserving Azerbaijan's history and national heritage while serving society as responsible citizens and qualified professionals.

In his address, Mr. Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education  stressed that educating women means educating mothers, and educated mothers have a profound impact on the quality of education in society. He noted that the positive outcomes of the scholarship program are already evident, emphasizing that every graduate will contribute to Azerbaijan's economy and society.

"We are pleased that this scholarship program and today's event benefit hundreds of young women. We must pay attention to girls' education from the earliest years of their lives. Alongside education, their social well-being must also be supported. Ensuring girls' equal access to education is essential for the sustainable development of our society," the Minister stated.

Mr. Nijat Mammadli, Chairman of the Board of the Education Development Fund, delivered a presentation on the scholarship programs implemented under the "Support for Girls' Education" project. He informed participants about the various support mechanisms, opportunities created for female students, and ongoing efforts to promote girls' education. He also presented the project's achievements and the successes of its participants, highlighting the important role of the private sector in these initiatives and inviting broader cooperation.

Graduates then shared their personal experiences, speaking about the positive impact the scholarship programs had on their lives.

Ms. Amina Ahmadova, a graduate of the Hanifa Malikova-Zardabi Scholarship Program and the Academy of the State Customs Committee, stated that the project provided not only financial assistance but also confidence and motivation for young women. She expressed her pride and gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the ceremony, emphasizing that Azerbaijan continues its long-standing tradition of promoting education, following the legacy of distinguished figures such as Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev and National Leader Heydar Aliyev, who placed particular importance on education and women's empowerment.

Ms. Aytakin Khalilova, a graduate of the "Confident Steps Toward the Future" Educational Support Program for the Wives of Martyrs and Baku Business University, noted that the project offered participants not only educational opportunities but also self-confidence, hope for the future, and the strength to move forward. She emphasized that recognizing and supporting the aspirations of martyrs' families is of great importance.

The event continued with an award ceremony honoring the graduates.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a cultural performance.