Our alumni communities and networks are growing day by day and have reached around 10.000 members. Some of them decided to organize chapters (small groups) to keep in contact or build professional collaboration with each other. In 2022 our alumni volunteers launched 6 different new alumni groups (4 local and 2 professional) giving a chance to the members to join. In our new column, Hikmat Hasanov introduces the Azerbaijan Hungary Alumni Union (AHAU) in Baku.
A significant milestone was achieved in the educational ties between Azerbaijan and Hungary when Azerbaijan Hungary Alumni Union (AHAU) was established in 2019 with the Hungarian Embassy in Baku, ASAP (Azerbaijan Students and Alumni Platform), the Ministry of Education and the Azerbaijan Youth Fund. The organization emerged as a thriving community, bringing together individuals who have studied in Hungary and are now working towards fostering connections, organizing impactful events, and driving positive change in both countries. Since its establishment, AHAU has played a pivotal role in strengthening the bond between alumni, raising awareness, and creating opportunities for collaboration.
AHAU serves as a powerful platform for networking, allowing alumni to reconnect and forge new connections. By bringing together individuals who have experienced Hungarian education, AHAU creates a supportive environment where ideas are exchanged, experiences are shared, and lifelong friendships are formed. The union's active alumni network spans various fields, including academia, business, arts, and public service, fostering a diverse and vibrant community.
One of the cornerstones of AHAU's mission is to organize events that inspire and empower its members. From professional development workshops to engaging seminars and conferences, AHAU offers a wide array of opportunities for continued growth and learning. These events provide a platform for alumni to share their expertise, discuss emerging trends, and contribute to the intellectual discourse in Azerbaijan.
AHAU is committed to making a positive impact on society through its diverse range of projects. These initiatives address critical issues such as education, social welfare, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. The union actively seeks collaboration with various stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, to develop sustainable solutions that benefit both Azerbaijan and Hungary.
A key objective of AHAU is to raise awareness about the benefits of studying in Hungary and the opportunities available to Azerbaijani students. Through information sessions, webinars, and social media campaigns, AHAU educates aspiring students about scholarships, study programs, and the rich cultural exchange that studying abroad can offer. By sharing success stories and testimonials from alumni members, AHAU inspires the next generation to explore educational opportunities in Hungary.
As AHAU continues to grow and evolve, the union remains dedicated to nurturing its vibrant alumni community and expanding its impact. By strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and Hungary, AHAU aims to facilitate future collaborations in academia, business, research, and cultural exchange. The union also seeks to deepen its engagement with local communities, fostering a spirit of volunteerism and social responsibility among its members.
The community organizes events both in Budapest and Baku. In Hungary the last five months, more than 15 meetings were held with alumni members. On 31st December they celebrated the New Year and the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day. The Azerbaijani graduates of Hungarian universities gathered for breakfast and performed Azerbaijani music and dances. Around 50 alumni members attended the event, which was held with the support of the Youth Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan and ASAP. Furthermore, there was a networking breakfast in Baku, where participants shared their projects or exchange ideas for 2023. The main plan was to involve as many alumni members living in Azerbaijan and overseas as possible and organize events that can bring alumni together.
They have a Facebook group named “Azerbaijan-Hungary Alumni Union” with around 150 members, where we invite the alumni members to join them. You can get more information on the union’s Instagram, and LinkedIn pages too.
AHAU, the Azerbaijani-Hungarian Alumni Union, stands as a testament to the power of education and the importance of forging lasting connections. With its focus on networking, organizing inspiring events, driving impactful projects, and raising awareness, AHAU plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Azerbaijan-Hungarian relations. As the union continues to thrive, it looks forward to creating even more opportunities for collaboration and making a lasting difference in the lives of its members and communities at large.
For further information please contact our alumni volunteer, Hikmat Hasanov (Deputy Chair of AHAU) or Gunay Bayramova (Chair of AHAU).