The Presidium of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences is abolished, and the management structure of the institution will be completely reformed.
Modern.az reports that the main reason for this decision is the virtual non-application of an analogous model worldwide and the establishment of scientific management through different mechanisms.
In global practice, fundamental and applied scientific research is primarily carried out by universities and specialized research institutes. Universities act not only as educational institutions, but also as centers for innovation, technology production, and the commercialization of scientific discoveries.
However, in the current model, scientific activity in the country has been concentrated in academy institutes for many years. Universities are primarily engaged in personnel training, student development, and the educational process. Whereas in global practice, higher education institutions also implement grant projects, obtain patents, collaborate directly with industry, and bring research results to market.
Sources report that the structural reforms being carried out aim to accelerate the integration of scientific activity into universities, increase the research potential of higher education institutions, and strengthen the innovation environment. In the new model, universities are targeted to become not only diploma-issuing institutions, but also centers producing scientific output.
According to information, along with the abolition of the leadership, significant changes are also expected in the academy's structure. Simplification of management mechanisms, redefinition of the division of powers, and renewal of the institutes' operating model are planned.
The decision is expected to be officially announced in the near future.(Sfera.az)
