Identification and development of academic partnerships between Azerbaijan and Norway in agriculture and related sciences.
Report from a fact finding mission to Azerbaijan, 06 – 14 November 2009
By the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB);
Mensur Vegara1, Anne Marte Tronsmo2 and Erling Thuen3
Introduction
Reference is made to an e-mail from Ambassador Jon Ramberg at the Norwegian Embassy in Baku to the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB), attention Vice Chancellor Knut Hove of 23.09.08, which says that Azerbaijan, which traditionally has been an agricultural country, would welcome an extended cooperation with Norway on agriculture and related sciences. Vice Chancellor Knut Hove confirmed the university’s interests for such cooperation. In an e-mail to UMB/ Knut Hove of 20.11.08, ambassador Ramberg confirmed that the Embassy in Baku would support an application from UMB to the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), for a pilot study with the objective to identify relevant research topics and partnership opportunities based upon Azerbaijan’s needs and priorities.
UMB wanted to start up the work under a pilot project with a fact finding mission, to identify possible partners in Azerbaijan, to discuss with them project ideas, and then jointly to develop such ideas for a long term programme. The Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) and Norway’s Tomb School of Agriculture have cooperated with Azerbaijan’s agrarian sector for many years and are recognised to be important partners for the pilot project phase, and also for subsequent project activities which may be identified from the pilot project phase.
UMB submitted an application for a pilot project to MFA 13 February 2009, which was approved by the Ministry 11 September 2009. UMB’s Department of International Environment and Development Studies, Noragric was requested to facilitate and implement the pilot project on behalf of UMB and in close cooperation with partners in Azerbaijan and Norway. NHE and the TOMB School of Agriculture agreed to facilitate the fact finding mission’s work in Azerbaijan.
Objectives
UMB’s main intensions under a pilot project for academic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Norway would be to encourage institutional cooperation on research and higher education in agricultural and soil sciences, animal husbandry and possibly also veterinary services. Other topics could also be prioritized, pending the outcome of discussions with partners in Azerbaijan.
Main pilot project objectives include:
• Promote networking and scientific cooperation between institutions in Azerbaijan and between Azerbaijan and Norway.
• Joint research and higher education on topics relevant for Azerbaijan.
• Support to selected institutions in Azerbaijan towards enhanced international professional academic levels and standards in agriculture and related sciences.
1 UMB, Department of International Environment and Development Studies, Noragric
2 UMB, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences
3
• Curriculum development and improvement of teaching and training for students and staff in Azerbaijan, e.g. via a sandwich study programme that allows for part-time studies in Norway.
• Staff upgrading, student and staff exchange and other cooperation between the participating institutions.
Planning via a pilot project
UMB proposed pilot phase would, through meetings in Azerbaijan and Norway:
• Explore, develop and broaden the network of institutional and personal contacts.
• Define academic thematic focus(es) of mutual interests.
• Discuss and prioritise project proposals.
• Incorporate prioritised projects in a long term programme proposal, which address national and institutional strategies in Azerbaijan.
• Develop detailed work plans and budgets.
Expected outputs from the pilot phase include:
• Identification of partners and possible project components,
• Joint definitions, descriptions and prioritisation of projects for a long term programme,
• Joint development of a long term programme, which address relevant Azerbaijan institutional and national policies and priorities.
• Securing interdisciplinarity and smooth cooperation between institutions in Azerbaijan and Norway,
• Preparation of a main phase programme document with activity plans and budgets.
Pilot project administration and logistics Focal point in Norway
UMB has requested Noragric to administer and implement the pilot project. Noragric has assigned Dr. Mensur Vegara to be the Programme Coordinator for the pilot project, to be assisted by Dr.
Thor S. Larsen. See Appendix 1.
Focal point in Azerbaijan:
UMB will work closely with Norwegian partners in Azerbaijan, which already are active in the country’s agricultural sector, e.g. the Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) and the Norwegian Tomb School of Agriculture. NHE has more than seven year’s experience from agriculture development related activities in several regions of Azerbaijan. NHE will participate in the pilot project planning and implementation, with e.g. its Program Manager and/or the Agricultural Project Manager. With its network, experience and contacts, NHE will promote and facilitate the pilot project’s fact finding activities in Azerbaijan. NHE will also act as a liaison institution in facilitation of communication and cooperation between UMB and Azerbaijan partners, and in the follow up of proposed activities.
Phasing of the pilot project
The first phase of the pilot project, i.e. the UMB fact finding visit to Azerbaijan, took place between 06 and 14 November 2009 by three UMB senior staff (see page 1.) The programme included meetings with Azerbaijan partners and stakeholders, presentation of the programme context and discussions about tentative plans for a main project. See Appendix 2-4. Plans are that
the fact finding mission will be followed up with a visit to UMB by up to four Azerbaijan partners, for mutual consultations and preparations of a long term main programme. A main programme would seek funding on an annual basis. A programme board with partners from Azerbaijan and Norway should be set up with a Mandate and Terms of Reference for annual planning, monitoring and quality controls.
Agriculture and livestock production in Azerbaijan in post Soviet period
Prior to the Soviet Union collapse and the civil war in the beginning of the 1990s the agricultural sector, including animal production, was an important contributor to Azerbaijan’s GDP. The country has huge agricultural production potentials. Agriculture in Azerbaijan is still recovering after the collapse of the collective farms in the time of Soviet Union. The land of the collective farms and the farm machinery was sold to farmers. The size of land each farmer got was often below 2 hectare and this size of land makes it impossible to farm with a profit. Such small land size is a major constraint to investment in agriculture. Lease of land has also become more common. The Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) has seen this problem and is promoting the establishment of farmers’ unions. However, there is some resistance against farmers’ unions because it reminds the farmers of the collective farms. Despite this problem, the NHE have managed to establish many farmers’ unions. Lease of land has also become more common. The agrarian sector is, however, still faced with several important constraints, e.g:
Weak and sometimes contradictory governmental administration on several levels.
Lack of national agricultural strategies that may enhance the agricultural/livestock sectors, e.g. agricultural cooperatives are very weak.
Whilst food production is vested under Ministry of Agriculture, food processing is under Ministry of Industry.
Lack of producer incentives from the Government, e.g. support for farmers, product price guarantees, farmers’ access to markets etc.
Lack of trade barriers that may enhance national agricultural production.
Proper certification of agricultural products and livestock is lacking. This represents a challenge and prerequisite for exports.
Veterinary controls of animal health and products are weak or lacking altogether. There is a need for a recording system for livestock.
Large import of (often subsidised) agricultural/livestock products furthermore deteriorates producer opportunities and encouragement for local farmers.
Salt accumulation is a problem in Ganja area as salty water is used for irrigation. The farmers are not paying for the use of water and overuse of water may contribute to the salinity problem.
The crop productivity appears to be low, but there appear to differences between the regions.
Why a Programme for institutional collaboration between academic institutions
Academic institutions are important contributors to social and economic development. They provide professional advice to governments, the private sector and to individual farmers (providing there is a functional extension service!). Their research and educational activities are important for improvement of production systems and for guidance towards sustainable development. They educate and train manpower that is needed for very many sectors of the society. And they are important participants in public debates that cover disciplinary as well as interdisciplinary issues.
Interdisciplinary research and education as well as national and international networking and collaboration are important in this context.
Findings
The UMB delegation was received with warm welcomes and very positive attitudes at every institution visited. Each institution was well presented with clear goals and objectives, whilst the UMB delegation explained the objectives of the fact finding mission. UMB gave the partners hard and electronic copies of the pilot project description, and the MFA template for of project proposal applications. See Appendix 1-4. It was agreed that competence and capacity building in Azerbaijan is crucial, that a programme for academic institutional cooperation therefore is needed and welcome, and that institutional cooperation and networking should be encouraged. It was furthermore agreed that education and training in Azerbaijan need to be harmonised, that exchanges of staff and students are important, and that research should support targeted interdisciplinary education and training.
All parties expressed support for institutional cooperation as described in the pilot project.
Representatives of the ASAU, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Norwegian Embassy in Baku gave particular support to the suggested project activities and tentative proposals. Ambassador Ramberg made it clear that projects in Azerbaijan will suffer from bad or lacking equipment at the Universities, which must be addressed and resolved from the Azerbaijan side. The reform of the ASAU will present a challenge. See Appendix 5-8.
Challenges and obstacles identified at the ASAU:
• Limited knowledge of English among faculty members and students.
• Limited access to computers and internet at the university
• Limited access to new laboratory equipment - strongly in need for upgrading
• Infrastructure at university - strongly in need for upgrading
• Financial resources seem to be very limited.
• The university expects a budget cut of 30% next year.
Opportunities for both sides are as follows but not limited to:
• Joint research projects.
• Apply different technologies for Azerbaijani climatic conditions and resuming results.
• Introducing different sorts of agricultural products grown in Azerbaijan to the Norwegian scientists.
• Student and professors exchange, internationalizing curriculum, and gaining new international perspectives and alliances.
• Other opportunities to be considered, depending upon common interests and further cooperation.
• Education and training?
Potential
• New legislation for university educations - the ASAU responsibility
• Implementation of the Bologna system has started this year. This will open up for exchanges and interactions with European universities.
• Transfer of knowledge and experience regarding the European higher education system.
• Joint master and PhD education, linked to joint research projects.
An ASAU project proposal may include of the following components:
• institutional development
• curriculum development
• study modules
• study visits
• student scholarships
• staff exchange
• joint seminars/workshops
• equipment
• development of teaching methodology
• staff development at the higher education partner institution
• scholarships for PhD studies may be granted if deemed necessary for the sustainability of the partner institution.
• joint study/research
• capacity building through teaching and training of students and M.Sc. and Ph.D. candidates, harmonisation of curriculum and syllabus between universities, exchange of staff and students etc. etc
Project proposals need not to be very detailed and specific at this stage, because they will be amended and re-written later, i.e. when Azerbaijan partners visit UMB under the pilot project.
Draft project proposals should address e.g. main aims and objectives, alignment with institutional and national priorities, specification of counterpart collaboration and contributions, and with an indicative budget as of Appendix 3. There is a need to highlight and specify national/ local contributions, in cash and/or in kind.
The way forward. Proposed schedule.
The pilot project envisages the following process:
1. The UMB partners to prepare a proposal for General Agreement of Co-operation between Azerbaijan State Agrarian University (ASAU) and the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB). Deadline: 16 November 2009. Appendix 9.
2. The Azerbaijan State Agrarian University, Ganja partners to prepare their project proposals according to guidelines as of documents provided and as of the outcome from the discussions with the UMB delegation. Deadline: 31 December 2009.
3. Noragric to hold a briefing workshop with possible Norwegian partners when programme objectives and pilot project findings are to be reviewed and discussed. Time: Early January 2010.
4. Norwegian partners to review the proposals from the ASAU and to make counterpart proposals that contribute to institutional cooperation and to the objectives of a proposed new programme. Deadline: 31 January 2010.
5. A workshop to be held at UMB, Norway, for joint ASAU/Norwegian discussions and prioritisation of project proposals. Time: February 2010.
6. After the workshop, a small working group (6-8 persons) to be selected from possible partner institutions (ASAU/Norwegian) with a mandate to write up a joint proposal for a long term programme (3-4 years?). The programme proposal will be discussed with the MFA, and then submitted with an application for funding, if appropriate. Deadline: End of February 2010.
Appendixes:
Appendix 1: Pilot Project: “Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan”
Appendix 2: Travel & visiting schedule in Azerbaijan 06-14.09.
Appendix 3: List of people met during the visit Azerbaijan Appendix 4: Project Content Template format Proposal
Appendix 5: Report by Prof. Dr. Anne Marte Tronmso, UMB, IPM Appendix 6: Report by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erling Thuen, UMB, IHA Appendix 7: Report by ASAU’s staff, Ganja
Appendix 8: Report by Fagan Agayev, NHE, Ganja
Appendix 9: General Agreement of Co-operation UMB-ASAU 16.11.09.
Pilot project: Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan. Identification and development of
academic partnerships between Azerbaijan and Norway in agriculture and related sciences.
Objectives.
UMB’s main intensions under a pilot project for academic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Norway would be to encourage institutional cooperation on research and higher education in agricultural and soil sciences, animal husbandry and possibly also veterinary services. Other topics may be prioritized, pending the outcome of discussions with partners in Azerbaijan.
Main pilot project objectives include:
• Promote networking and scientific cooperation between institutions in Azerbaijan and between Azerbaijan and Norway.
• Joint research and higher education on topics relevant for Azerbaijan.
• Support to selected institutions in Azerbaijan towards enhanced international professional academic levels and standards in agriculture and related sciences.
• Curriculum development and improvement of teaching and training for students and staff in Azerbaijan, e.g. via a sandwich study programme that allows for part-time studies in Norway.
• Staff upgrading, student and staff exchange and other cooperation between the participating institutions.
Planning via a pilot project.
UMB proposes a pilot phase, which through meetings in Azerbaijan and Norway shall:
• Explore, develop and broaden the network of institutional and personal contacts.
• Define academic thematic focus(es) of mutual interests.
• Discuss and prioritise project proposals.
• Incorporate prioritised projects in a long term programme proposal, which address national and institutional strategies in Azerbaijan.
• Develop detailed work plans and budgets.
Expected outputs from the pilot phase include:
• Identification of partners and possible project components,
• Joint definitions, descriptions and prioritisation of projects for a long term programme,
• Joint development of a long term programme, which address relevant Azerbaijan institutional and national policies and priorities.
• Securing interdisciplinarity and smooth cooperation between institutions in Azerbaijan and Norway,
• Preparation of a main phase programme document with activity plans and budgets.
Phasing of the pilot project.
A pilot project should start with a two week’s fact finding visit to Azerbaijan by three UMB senior staff, followed up with a two week’s visit to UMB by up to four Azerbaijan partners, for mutual consultations and preparations of a long term main programme. A main programme would seek funding on an annual basis. A programme board with partners from Azerbaijan and Norway should be set up with a Mandate and Terms of Reference for annual planning, monitoring and quality controls.
Appendix 1: Pilot project: Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan
Pilot project administration and logistics.
Focal point in Azerbaijan.
UMB will work closely with Norwegian partners in Azerbaijan, which already are active in the country’s agricultural sector, e.g. the Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) and the Norwegian Tomb School of Agriculture. NHE has more than six year’s experience from agriculture development related activities in several regions of Azerbaijan. NHE will participate in the pilot project planning and implementation, with e.g. its Program Manager and/ or the Agricultural Project Manager. With its network, experience and contacts, NHE will promote and facilitate the pilot project’s fact finding activities in Azerbaijan. NHE will arrange meetings as required with government officials, NGOs, and academic and agricultural institutions and organizations.
NHE’s focal point for the proposed pilot project is:
Fagan Agayev,
NHE Agricultural Program Manager Ganja, Azerbaijan
Phone: (+99422) 57 33 52 Mobile: (+99455) 662 74 26 Email: [email protected]
Focal point in Norway.
UMB has requested its Department of International Environment and Development Studies, Noragric, to administer the proposed pilot project application to MFA and UMB’s roles in the subsequent implementation of the pilot project. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mensur Vegara at the Department of International Environment and Development Studies will act as UMB’s Programme coordinator for the university’s application to MFA for funding of the pilot project.
Proposed Norwegian coordination and planning for a new programme: Pilot Project: “Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan. Identification and development of academic partnerships between Azerbaijan and Norway in agriculture and related sciences”.
Noragric, with its professional staff from several nations, Noragric plays active roles in national and international committees and networks, in advisory roles for NORAD and MFA, and in institutional collaboration with many partners throughout the world. Noragric brings together research, education and development-related assignments with a focus on developing countries and countries with economies in transition. Besides its role as the international gateway for UMB, Noragric also acts on behalf of the Norwegian College of Veterinary Medicine (NVH) and Norwegian Agricultural Research International (NARI), which form alliances with UMB. With more than 40 years of collaboration between UMB and academic and professional institutions in developing countries and in Eastern Europe, Noragric has established a broad network of worldwide contacts.
Noragric has agreements with more than 30 partners in developing countries, in Eastern Europe and South East Europe/West Balkan. Joint programmes include research and education activities as well as support to institutional development. Collaborative arrangements encourage strong links with like-minded institutions in Norway and abroad in order to exchange experiences and to provide multi-disciplinary services.
The programme development team at Noragric will comprise:
Programme coordinator: Assoc. Prof. Mensur Vegara, PhD, Department of International Environment and Development Studies, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB). P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Aas, Norway. Tel. reception: +47-64-965200, Tel. direct: +47-64-965316, Fax. +47- 64-965201, Cell phone: +47-90 63 88 84. e-mail: [email protected],
url: http://www.umb.no/noragric/
Programme backstopping / Programme Desck Officire: Thor S. Larsen, Dr. Philos, Department of International Environment and Development Studies, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB). P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Aas, Norway. Tel. reception: +47-64-965200, Tel. direct: +47-64- 965313, Fax. +47-64-965201,Cell phone: +47-90 92 92 82. e-mail: [email protected], Skype:
thorslarsen, url: http://www.umb.no/noragric/.
UD Pilot Project: “Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan. Identification and development of academic partnerships between Azerbaijan and Norway in agriculture and related sciences”
Visit and work in the Azerbaijan 06.11-14.11.09. Dr. Anne Marte Tronsmo, Dr. Erling Thuen & Dr. Mensur Vegara Primary contact: Mr. Fagan Agayev, NHE, Mob. + 994 (0)55 662 74 26, E-mail: [email protected]
Secondary contact: Dr. Anne Marte Tronsmo, Mob. + 47 415 18 198, E-mail: [email protected] Dr. Erling Thuen, Mob. + 47 926 30 103, E-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Mensur Vegara, Mob. + 47 906 38 884, E-mail: [email protected]
Travel & visiting schedule4:
Friday, 06.11.09 Travel from Norway at 06.34; via Copenhagen and Istanbul. Arrival to Heydar Aliyev International airport Baku at 23.35. Meeting by Baku staff member (Cavid) and accommodation at Hotel!
Saturday, 07.11.09 11.00-18:00 Departure to Ganja.
18.30-20:00 Arrival to Ganja, food and placing /accommodation at Ganja Hotel
Sunday, 08.11.09 09. 45 Visiting different farms in regions. Programme of Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) 13.00-14.30 Dinner
14.30- 18.00 Continue the farms visiting 18.00-19.00 Rest and walk in the city.
19.00- 20.30 Supper at restaurant
Monday, 09.11.09 10.00 -11.30 Visiting Agrarian University in Ganja. Meeting with staff and discussions.
11.30 -14.30 Visiting different faculties (husbandry, soil, horticulture etc.) 14.30 -15.45 Dinner
16.00-17.00 Continue visiting and meetings in the University; Depart. of Veterinary Sciences.
17.15-19.30 Visiting Ganja Agribusiness Association - GABA, NGO 20.00-21.00 Food and rest, some sightseeing in Ganja
Tuesday, 10.11.09 10.30-13.30 Visiting Zonal (Western) Veterinary station in Goy-Gol region.
13.00- 14.00 Dinner 14.00- Departure to Baku
20.30 Arrival to Baku and accommodation in the hotel.
Wednesday, 11.11.09 10.00-12.00 Meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture - Deputy Minister 13.00-14.30 Dinner
15.00-17.00 Meeting with head of State Veterinary Service at the Ministry of Agriculture 17.00-18.30 Free times.
18.30- 20.00 Rest, food and sightseeing in Baku. Stay in hotel.
Thursday, 12.11.09 07.30- 08.30 Breakfast
09.00- 10.15 Meeting with head of World Bank /Agriculture Development and Credit Project 10.30-13.00 Meeting with NHE director Jon Petter Feidal
11.00-12.30 Meeting in the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources: Cancelled by Ministry 12.11.
13.00-14.30 Dinner
15.00-16.30 Meeting in the ministry of Education, Head of International Relations Department 17.00-18.30 Free time
19.00- Food and rest
Friday, 13.11.09 09.00-11.00 Summary of visiting and discussions for future actions 13.00-14.30 Dinner
15.00-16.30 Visit Royal Norwegian Embassy in Baku. Meeting with Norwegian Ambassador 19.00 Food and rest
Saturday, 14.11.09 Departure from Baku airport at 07.00. Travel to Oslo via Istanbul and Copenhagen. Arrival to Oslo airport at 15.25, Norway
4 Suggestion from Norwegian visitors are: During our visiting of Agrarian University in Ganja will be very important to meet members of its staff within: ‘crop science’ and ‘animal husbandry’- Agriculture, Horticulture, Crop Science, Soil Science, Plant Protection, Animal Nutrition, Animal Breeding, Veterinary Services and Agroecology, Other topics may be prioritized, pending the outcome of discussions with partners in Azerbaijan
Appendix 2: Travel & visiting schedule in Azerbaijan 06-14.09.
UD Pilot Project: “Fact finding mission to Azerbaijan. Identification and development of academic partnerships between Azerbaijan and Norway in agriculture and related sciences”
Visit and work in the Azerbaijan 06.11-14.11.09. Dr. Anne Marte Tronsmo, Dr. Erling Thuen & Dr. Mensur Vegara Primary contact: Mr. Fagan Agayev, NHE, Mob. + 994 (0)55 662 74 26, E-mail: [email protected]
Secondary contact: Dr. Anne Marte Tronsmo, Mob. + 47 415 18 198, E-mail: [email protected] Dr. Erling Thuen, Mob. + 47 926 30 103, E-mail: [email protected]
Dr. Mensur Vegara, Mob. + 47 906 38 884, E-mail: [email protected]
List of people met during the visit to Azerbaijan:
Institution: Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE) in Ganja; Programme of Agriculture
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Fagan Agayev, NHE Manager [email protected]
+994 (0)55 662 74 26 +994 (0)22 57 33 52
2 Həbilov Kamal, Farmer Goylol region
+994 (0)70 273 74 76 3 Hamidov Rauf, Farmer Goranboy region
+994 (0)70 344 45 06 4 Kazimov Mubariz, Farmer Sanmkh region
+994 (0)50 310 89 91 5 Hasanov Altay, Project Veterinarian
+994 (0)50 388 48 77 6 Hamidov Oktay, Project Veterinarian
+994 (0)50 329 46 29 7 Aliyev Ogtay, Project Veterinarian
+994 (0)55 636 27 99
Institution: Azerbaijan State Agrarian University (ASAU), Ganja
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Nazrin Baghirova, MA, coordinator [email protected]
+994 (0)50 537 54 11 +994 (0)22 56 33 56
2 Galib Dunyamaliyev, PhD [email protected]
+994 (0)70 615 95 97 +994 (0)22 52 33 85
3 Anar Hatamov, PhD [email protected]
+994 (0)50 378 05 68 +994 (0)22 56 94 21
4 Nizami Seyidaliyev, PhD, Vice-rector
5 Jafar Maharramov, PhD, Internatinal re. [email protected]
+994 (0)55 656 36 25 +994 (0)22 57 33 52
6 Ibrahim Jafarov Hasan, PhD, Vice-rec.
7 Qurban Mammadov, PhD,
Head of Dep. of Plant Growing and Plant Protection
+994 (0)50 537 92 53 +994 (0)22 56 56 00
8 Zaur Hunbatov [email protected]
+994 (0)50 318 94 16 +994 (0)22 56 97 08
9 Jamil Hajiyev
Head of Dep. of Plant Genetics and Selection +994 (0)22 56 33 59
10 Vahid Guliyev, Prof.
Head of Dep. of Ecology and Forestry
11 Tamil Sharifov
12 Amin Babayev, Prof. Dr.
Head of Dep. of Soil Sciences
+994 (0)55 271 71 01 +994 (0)22 56 91 00
13 Maharram Ismaylov
Dean of Faculty of Agronomy +994 (0)50 324 77 15 +994 (0)22 56 81 15
14 Vugar Bashirov, Assist. Prof. [email protected]
+994 (0)55 660 87 86 +994 (0)22 56 91 00
15 Bayram Telman Iskanderov
Dean of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
+994 (0)50 614 96 61 16 Afak Abbasova,
Senior Laboratory Worker +994 (0)50 493 71 36
17 Shahla Asadova,
Laboratory Worker +994 (0)22 56 02 27
18 Zulfiyya maharramova,
Laboratory Worker
Appendix 3: List of people met during the visit Azerbaijan
Institution: Ganja Agribusiness Association (GABA) - NGO
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Amin Babayev, Prof. Dr.
Head of Directors of GABA
+994 (0)55 271 71 01 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
2 Vugar Bashirov,
GABA Expert of Organic Farming
+994 (0)55 660 87 86 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
3 Habib Abbasov, Assist. Prof.
GABA Editor of Organic Farming Journal
+994 (0)55 271 71 15 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
4 Vugar Mokuneayev,
Director of GABA
+994 (0)55 271 71 04 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
5 Elmadin Namazov,
Consultant of GABA
+994 (0)55 657 55 39 6 Ilgar Agayev,
GABA, I.T. Manager
+994 (0)55 644 08 95 7 Nizami Ibrahimli,
GABA, Project Manager
+994 (0)55 775 61 71 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
8 Elmira Valiyeva,
Expert of GABA’s Journal Staff Member
+994 (0)55 271 71 16 +994 (0)22 56 94 00
Institution: Zonal (Western) Veterinary Station in Goy-Gol Region
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Azəz Suleymanov, Veterinarian
Head of Veterinary Station
+994 (0)50 310 90 56 +994 (0)23 05 26 78
Institution: Ministry of Agriculture, Baku
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Bahram H. Aliyev, Prof. dr.
Deputy Minister
+994 12 598 38 72
2 Esmira Latifova [email protected]
+994 (0)50 370 43 69 +994 12 598 28 01
Institution: Ministry of Education, Baku
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax 1 Gulu Novruzov
Head of International Relations Department
[email protected] +994 12 496 06 61
2 Ms Konul Maharramova, [email protected]
+994 (0)50 664 50 85 +994 12 496 34 14
Institution: State Veterinary Service at the Ministry of Agriculture, Baku
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax 1 Ismail Hasanov, Dr.
Chief of the State Veterinary Service
+994 (0)50 319 08 10 +994 12 563 24 85
Institution: World Bank, Agricultural Development and Credit Project, Baku
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax
1 Masud M. Khatibi,
Veterinarian Specialist
+994 (0)50 345 60 86 +994 12 562 77 95
Institution: Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE), Baku
No. Person (s)/Participant(s)/Position(s): Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax 1 Jon Petter Feidal,
NHE Country Director
+994 (0)50 668 44 94 +994 12 493 62 19
Royal Norwegian Embassy in Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan
No. Person (s) / Participant(s) Contact address: E-mail Mobil Phone/Fax 1 Jon Ramberg
(Ambassador of Norway)
[email protected] [email protected]
P+994 12 497 43 25 F+994 12 497 37 98
1 Ina Mossin [email protected] P+994 12 497 43 25
(NORWEGIAN PROGRAMME IN AGRICULTURE AND VETERINARY MEDICINE)
“Institutionalcollaboration between academic institutions in Agriculture and related sciences in Norway and Azerbaijan”
(Project Content Proposal)
(Please give project proposals in font style – WORD TIMES NEW ROMAN and FONT SIZE 11 and keep the same Template format, please)
The electronic copy must be sent by e-mail to [email protected], dead line 31.12.2009.
1. Project: (title)
2. Participating institutions Person (s) E-mail / Contact address Lead institution
Cooperating institution(s)
3. Aims and objectives (Overall goal; Immediate goal) 4. Background
5. Brief description of thematic focus(es) and cluster coherence 6. Alignment with national and institutional strategies in the region 7. Counterpart(s)
8. Expected results – output
9. Time requirements:
Local contributions: man-weeks Local (internat. paid) man-weeks International: man-weeks
10. Project activities and Costs
No Description Date Cost1
1
Total Norwegian Financing
Total National Financing
1Cost in 1000 NOK.
11. Total Cost of the Programme
No Project Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Sum1
Int’l.
Sum1 Nat.
1 2 3 4
5
Total
1Cost in 1000 NOK
Appendix 4: Project Content Template format Proposal
Report from “Fact finding mission” to Azerbaijan 6.-14. Nov. 2009 (Received 21 November 2009 10:19)
Anne Marte Tronsmo, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, (UMB, IPM)
First personal impression of the society
The route from the airport to Baku, and the first sight of the city itself, gave an impression of a very wealthy country. However, the challenges in this country came visible on the route from Baku to Ganja by car. In some areas the landscape resembled deserts I before have seen in Israel and Nevada (USA), and a salt layer covered the soil as snow in some places. Large herds of cattle and flocks of sheep were on the move from summer pastures to winter pastures, herded by men on horseback. My impression was a country with great contrasts, in many aspects. According to information on internet their oil resources are 25% of what Norway has.
In Ganja we were met by Fagan Agayev from NHE, who had made all the arrangements for us, and acted as translator and local guide during our whole visit.
Farm visits
Already on the first farm visited (a small one), one of the main challenges was presented by the farmer: Sufficient fodder supply of sufficient quality. They do not have access to grass seed of varieties that are adapted to their climate. This affects both the quality of the summer pastures, as well as the composition of the harvested hay for indoor feeding during winter. They mainly grow Lucerne and dry it for winter fodder.
The second farm we visited was a much larger one (180ha), a pilot farm that collaborated with NHE. They produced several cash crops in addition to fodder for 63 animals. The lack of grass seed of adapted varieties was confirmed here as well. In addition to Lucerne hay, the winter fodder consisted of ensilage of sugar beet, corn etc. The silo was made as a deep hole in the ground (directly in the soil). From a microbiological point of view, it can be expressed as very interesting, and must present a great risk of contamination with harmful microorganisms (Clostridium sp.
amongst others).
At the third farm visit we were guided by a 13 year old boy who was working full time there. The farm had 100ha, including pastures for sheep. Main crops were Lucerne as fodder and wheat (as cash crop?). From their 10 dairy cows, they produced cheese, under very questionable hygienic conditions. At the end of our visit, the owner turned up, and asked for support to install milking machines.
All three farms participated in a project for artificial insemination with sperm from “Norsk Rødt Fe”, a project funded by NHE, and done by veterinarians employed by NHE. None of the farms had a proper identification of the animals, their progeny and how much milk they produced.
Agrarian University in Ganja (ASAU)
Monday November 9th we had an appointment with the rector at the Agrarian University.
However, this was unfortunately cancelled. We had a meeting with our contact persons Nazrin Baghirova, Galib Dunyamaliyev and Anar Hatamov, in addition the vice rector Nizami Seyidalyev, participated in part of the meeting. My colleague Mensur Vegara gave us all useful background information about the pilot project, aims and further activities. It was agreed on a deadline of December 31st, 2009, for project proposal drafts from Agrarian University. Appropriate Norwegian partners must then be identified, and a final project description must be submitted February 15th 2010. By the UMB representatives, it was pointed out that integrated project that
Appendix 5: Report by Prof. Dr. Anne Marte Tronmso, UMB, IPM
included the whole production chain was a priority. It was made clear that national co-funding from Azerbaijan would be regarded as an important criterion in selection among the applications.
On our visit at Agronomy Faculty, we had a brief tour in a few laboratories, then a meeting with the department heads. In this meeting, I gave a presentation of Norwegian University of Life science, our education programs, our structure and different departments. In addition I also gave a short presentation of Department of Plant and Environmental sciences, with main focus on education programs. The audience was very active and asked several questions, reflecting that many of them shoved eager interest in finding possibilities for collaboration.
In the afternoon we had a meeting with prorector Ibrahim H. Jafarov, also professor in plant pathology, who expressed interest in exchange of teachers between the two universities.
(Comment: The challenge here would be the language barrier). Then followed a meeting at the Veterinary Faculty where Nazrin Baghirova presented the strategic plan for the development of the Veterinary education, the goals, means and resources needed. They need commercial partners, university partners and donors. According to my understanding they already have established a collaboration (partnership) with a university in Hungary regarding the curriculum development.
My colleague Erling Thuen gave a short presentation of Norwegian University of Life science and of Department of Animal and Aquaculture Sciences.
Late afternoon the UMB delegation was invited by Professor Amin H. Babayev, head of the soil laboratory, to a presentation of specific project proposals. The projects aim at promotion of sustainable land with a focus on fodder supply, deforestation, overgrazing, salinization and desertification. Important objectives are to develop guidelines on how to prevent erosion, on re- vegetation, to increase of soil fertility and to support rural people through measures against desertification of lowland area.
Project descriptions have been developed by Ganja Agribusiness Association (GABA), a NGO headed by Professor Babayev. They are searching for partners and resources to launch the projects.
The Norwegian delegation expressed that we find these projects very interesting, but that they have to be proposed from the university (ASAU).
Ministry of Agriculture
Up to quite recently ASAU was under the Ministry of Education, but belongs now to the Ministry of Agriculture. On November 11th, our delegation, including Galib Dunyamaliyev and (vice-rector Nizami Seyidalyev?) from ASAU was received by deputy minister dr. Bakhram H. Aliyev. Our pilot project was presented by colleague Mensur Vegara, some supplementary information was given by the other two delegated form UMB. The deputy minister commented that the Plant Protection Institute (located in Ganja) should be invited into the project. He also requested to be kept informed about agreements between the two universities, and also suggested that there should be made a memorandum of understanding between the two countries, and that the Azerbaijan Ministry of foreign affairs must be involved (Comment: This may already be taken care of through the joint declaration between our two countries, signed in December 2007 by the two ministers of foreign affairs, Elmar Mammadyarov and Jonas Gahr Støre).
The deputy minister pointed out that Azerbaijan is a part of Europe, but there are steps to be taken to be further integrated into Europe, particularly regarding legislation, food safety and new technologies. He also commented that walls are developing in other ways, more specific through the two big problems in the word today: Energy and Food safety. A goal for Azerbaijan is to develop the non-oil sector, aiming at agriculture and tourism. The development should be based on science and development of their education system. They have new education legislation
(Comment: I assume that he was referring to the implementation of the Bologna system for higher education). The deputy minister expressed that he supported our visit, and that they particularly look for higher studies in biotechnology and nanotechnology.
In the further discussion on agriculture, the deputy minister explained that Azerbaijan has 9 out of 11 climatic zones. On the animal side, they have a gene bank, with a center for insemination and education for staff for that. They are also discussing the establishment of a center for embryo transplantation. In sheep breeding, the main goal is milk production, for goats they have collaboration with France. Important agricultural trade products are wine and pome-granat juice (claimed to cure all health related problems!).
We were also informed about the land reform of 1996. Today, the government owns 57.9% of the land area, the local government 23.1% and private owned are 19%. They produce 100% of their wheat, 80% of the meat and 100% of the eggs. For milk there is some import, while vegetables are exported. Their goal is to be seen not only as an oil and gas producing country. They are not yet member of WTO, but have an observer status. They are working on their legislation to fulfill the requirements in the SPS agreement
Veterinary Department
The veterinary department belongs to the Ministry of Agriculture. We were received by Dr. Ismail Hasanov, Chief of the State Veterinary Service, in the afternoon November 11th. The veterinary department (Veterinary Committee?) has several regional veterinary stations (Goy-Gol being one of them) .There are 2000 educated veterinarians employed by the Azerbaijan government, in addition to private ones. He wanted an exchange program that would allow those who had completed their veterinary education to go to Norway in order to learn modern instruments and methods. He pointed to trade collaboration with Norway regarding fish, suggest collaboration on heavy metals. We also learned that he/they just now have found a unique new treatment for brucellosis, and that this was announced on a press conference the day before.
On our questions regarding WTO and SPS, we were informed that much of the matter needed was already developed, only one important task was lacking, the identification system for animals. This work was now in progress, funded by the Word Bank. Regarding the SPS requirements, the animal husbandry (sanitary) side seems further developed than the phytosanitary side. According to Dr Hasanov, harmonization of legislation and standards towards SPS and WTO requirements were strongly supported by the president (this is how I understood him).
Regional veterinary station
The Zonal veterinary station in Goy-Gol was visited November 10th. We were informed about main incidences of diseases, their government funded vaccination program and checks for brucellosis and tuberculosis. The region covers 46 villages and has 13 veterinarians. Their main task is to give the vaccinations at the right time. NHE has a project for artificial insemination in the region. The government also provides artificial insemination, but the NHE project has resulted in better progeny and better health, and is therefore preferred by the farmers. We also had a tour in some of the labs (bacteriology, serology, virology) that hosted some brand new equipment (ELISA, PCR). According to the head of the station, the university teachers do not have access to these new technologies and the necessary knowledge. Most of the staff at the station have has additional training in other countries. He also suggested that they can advice the university in their upgrading of the curriculum in the veterinary studies.
State Agency on Agriculture Credit
This visit was not in the original program, but an invitation came during our stay in Baku. On the morning November 12th, we met with Masud M. Khatibi, also a veterinarian. He is in charge of
Word Bank/Agricultural Development and Credit projects. The Agency is under the Ministry of Agriculture, but not under the Veterinary committee (Veterinary Department?). Their funding is based on 70% from the Word bank and 30% from the Azerbaijan government, plus some grants.
Mr. Khatibi commented that many foreign visitors are disappointed following their visits to the Veterinary faculty at ASAU, by the lack of infrastructure, and that he now welcomes the changes that are in progress. The planned changes in education structure should open up for master studies abroad, but important obstacles may be limited knowledge of English and lack of computer skills.
The Agency has provided a lot of new equipment to the veterinary stations, but since they saw that the same was needed at the university, they have now provided ELISA equipment, microscopes and laminar hoods. However, the university does not have a budget that allows them to buy reagents for running the ELISA tests. The agency also supports internships for people to foreign universities (Munich, Torino and New Zealand were referred to). With the aim of getting students interested in their own work, 8 students from ASAU were invited to Baku last year. He also informed about a new vaccination against brucellosis in sheep by eye dripping, where they have invited vet students to participate.
The Agency has also other projects, not only veterinarian ones. They have established regional advisory centers in different fields. Unfortunately our time did not allow us to get more information about this. His understanding must have been that we mainly were interested in the veterinary aspects.
Ministry of Education
We were received at the ministry of education November 12th by Gulu Novruzov, head of International Relations department. After a presentation of our pilot project, he asked if the project could be developed to include other universities as well, and specifically referred to the Nakhchivan State University. He further informed about their work connected to the “Bologna process”. Moreover, he expressed his doubts about the skills in writing project proposals by Azerbaijani colleagues, and pointed out that they will need assistance.
NHE
In our meeting with Jon Petter Feidal, NHE Country Director in Azerbaijan, he gave us facts about the society from his experience after 13 years in the country. The country’s power sits in the presidential palace. Different sectors, different ministries do not communicate. Even if 50 % of the population lives in urban areas, the population outside Baku consist mainly of small size farmers, 80% of them are in the agricultural sector. A problem is the development of monopoly in different areas, only meat and bee products are not yet monopolized. Jon Petter’s goal is to give the small people expertise and knowledge. According to Fagan, people accept the current situation because they want stability and peace (with civil wars in recent memory). From Jon Petter we also learned about the financial situation in the country, widespread corruption and black economy.
Norwegian Embassy
The Norwegian ambassador Jon Ramberg, received us November 13th. He explained the background for the initiative and the aims: A contribution towards sustainable growth in Azerbaijan when the oil runs out. The advice for our future project is to focus on science and education, through academic method and teaching methods even though agriculture is the substance. The agreement between the two universities should refer to the “Joint declaration on the further development of friendly relations and cooperation between the Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Azerbaijan”, signed December 4th 2007, by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmar Mammadyarov on his visit to Norway
(http://www.regjeringen.no/nb/dep/ud/aktuelt/nyheter/2007/aserbajdsjan_samarbeid.html?id=4933 79). (Jonas Gahr Støre visited Azerbaijan in April 2008). (See Annex 1.)
Mr. Ramberg also advised us to make clear that the Azerbaijan projects cannot go ahead as long as the Universities are so badly equipped, and that this must be taken care of from the Azerbaijan side. The reform of the Agrarian University will present a challenge.
Conclusions in summary Academic curriculum
• New legislation for university educations.
• Implementation of the Bologna system has started this year. This will open up for exchange and interaction with European universities.
Infrastructure at university
• Strongly in need for upgrading Resources
• Financial resources seem to be very limited.
• The university expects a budget cut of 30% next year.
Obstacles
• Limited knowledge of English among faculty members and students.
• Limited access to computers and internet at the university Potential
• Transfer of knowledge and experience regarding the European higher education system.
• Joint master and PhD education, linked to joint research projects.
Other comments
My impression is that at most of the places we visited, we were perceived as potential donors, looking for an appropriate project. We were asked to buy milking machines, coolers, to fund a regional vaccination site and upgrade laboratory equipment. Dr. Vegara therefore repeatedly informed that we did not represent a humanitarian organization, but a university looking for partners for collaboration in science and higher education on relevant projects of mutual interest.
From my point of view, our visit was heavily dominated by veterinarian aspects. The fundamental problems we could see with our own eyes, as desertification and soil erosion was fortunately taken up discussed through the invitation from Professor Babayev at Soil Science in the Agronomy faculty.
JOINT DECLARATION
on the further development of friendly relations and cooperation between
the Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Azerbaijan
The Government of the Kingdom of Norway and the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan (hereinafter referred to as the “Parties”),
With reference to the official talks between Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov in connection with Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov's official visit to Norway on 4-5 December 2007, which led to a useful exchange of opinions on the status and future prospects of developing the bilateral relations and cooperation between Norway and Azerbaijan in fields of common interest, including cooperation on international issues,
underlining the importance of further expanding and developing their bilateral relations in the political, economic, cultural, environmental, humanitarian and other areas,
confirming their adherence to international law, including the UN Charter, and the political commitments of the Helsinki Final Act (OSCE),
confirming their desire to promote an atmosphere of trust and security, cooperation and mutual understanding in Europe and the world at large, as well as to prevent international conflicts and to promote respect for human rights and the rights of minorities,
confirming their support for peaceful settlement of disputes, based on the respect and observance of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders of States in accordance with the UN Charter,
underlining the significance of building democratic institutions, strengthening civil society and promoting a sustainable market economy, have declared their intention to:
1. In the field of political and security dialogue
• pursue their efforts to develop bilateral cooperation in accordance with the Joint Declaration between the Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Azerbaijan, signed by Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland and President Heydar Aliev on 24 April 1996, as well as the Protocol on Cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, signed on 23 February 2000,
• develop the political and security dialogue on regional and international issues,
• support bilateral and multilateral cooperation within the framework of the Council of Europe and the OSCE to promote democratic standards, good governance, human rights, pluralism and the rule of law,
• strengthen cooperation within the framework of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and NATO's Partnership for Peace Program, with the aim to increase their cooperation within the NATO framework in areas such as peace operations, democratic control of the armed forces and security sector reform,
(Annex 1.)
• support a peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on the basis of respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of the internationally recognised borders of the Republic of Azerbaijan,
• coordinate their efforts, both bilaterally and through international and regional organisations, in the fight against international terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, organised crime, the trafficking of narcotics and human beings, and illegal immigration,
• coordinate their efforts in the fight against corruption, both bilaterally and through international organisations and processes, including the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which promotes revenue transparency in the oil, gas and mining sectors, and seek ways of strengthening their bilateral cooperation within the EITI framework and cooperate to promote this initiative globally,
• increase their efforts aimed at expediting Azerbaijan's WTO accession negotiations,
2. In the field of bilateral trade and investment
• secure the best possible legal framework with a view to further expanding trade and investment and developing the economic ties between Norway and Azerbaijan,
• contribute to the establishment of adequate framework conditions for cooperation in the fields of business and industry, in both the energy and non-energy sectors,
• support measures to enhance contacts and mutual understanding between the business communities in the two countries with the aim of increasing interest in trade and investments,
• share experience in areas such as economic reform, public administration, social security and innovation,
3. In the field of energy and environment
• encourage further dialogue and cooperation in the energy sector, particularly as regards industrial cooperation, exploration and production, technology development and legal frameworks,
• continue to exchange information on the management of the Norwegian Government´s Pension Fund and Azerbaijan's State Oil Fund,
• expand cooperation on sustainable management of energy resources, environmental and climate issues,
• stress the importance of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum oil and gas pipelines for European energy security,
4. In the field of education, culture, science and civil society
• encourage the development of educational, cultural, technological and scientific ties through direct cooperation between institutions in these fields, as exemplified by the projects between the Universities of Agder and Oslo and the Azerbaijani University of Languages, between the BI Norwegian School of Management and Khazar University, and between the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and the Azerbaijani State Oil Academy,
• encourage student exchanges between Norway and Azerbaijan within the framework of the programme of project cooperation,
• bring to a successful conclusion the joint project on local government between the Azerbaijani authorities, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe and the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities,
• strengthen the role of civil society, with particular emphasis on free media and non-governmental organisations,
• facilitate the sharing of the expertise and experience acquired by the Norwegian Refugee Council in order to alleviate the situation of refugees and internally displaced persons in Azerbaijan, with a view to contributing to contingency planning for a resettlement process,
• recognise the importance of the work carried out jointly by Norwegian and Azerbaijani archaeologists on rock carvings, and welcome the inclusion of the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape in the UNESCO List of World Cultural Heritage,
5. In the field of diplomatic training and partnership
• support the implementation of the Agreement on collaboration between the Royal Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the training of Azerbaijani diplomats, signed in Baku on 31 October 2007.
Concluded in Oslo on 4 December 2007 in two original copies in the English language.
For the Government For the Government
of the Kingdom of Norway of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Jonas Gahr Støre Elmar Mammadyarov
Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister of Foreign Affairs
Report from ‘Fact finding mission’ to Azerbaijan 6.-14. 11. 2009 (Received 30 November 2009 15:11)
Erling Thuen, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, (UMB, IHA)
Introduction
The main objective of the mission was to encourage institutional cooperation on research and higher education in agricultural and soil sciences, animal husbandry and possibly also veterinary services between Azerbaijan and Norway.
The institutional cooperation will be between the Agrarian University in Ganja, Azerbaijan (ASAU) and the University of Life Sciences in Norway (ULS).
During the stay in Azerbaijan the Norwegian delegation (Mensur Vegara, Anne Marte Tronsmo and Erling Thuen) had the opportunity to visit:
- Three private farms of different size and intensity with crop and animal production in the Ganja region
- The Agrarian University in Ganja (ASAU) which includes meetings with university staff members and representatives from the Agronomy- and Veterinary Faculty
- Ganja Agribusiness Association (GABA), a private association.
- Ministry of Agriculture (MA), Baku - Ministry of Education (ME), Baku
- Regional veterinary station in Goy-Gol region - State Veterinary Service, Baku
- State Agency on Agricultural Credit, Baku
- Norwegian Humanitarian Enterprise (NHE), main office in Baku - Norwegian Embassy in Baku
The visit to Azerbaijan was planned in cooperation with NHE Agricultural Program Manager Mr.
Fagan who was our host and translator during the stay. Without him the visit had been difficult/impossible to carry out.
Agricultural Policy
The economy of Azerbaijan is totally dependent on oil export, as 80-90% of the Gross National Income (BNP in Norwegian) comes from the oil sector. In many respects, it seems to be a rich country but the wealth is unequally distributed among urban and rural areas and among people which is characteristic for many developing countries.
ASAU is now under MA. During our visit to MA we were told by the deputy minister (Dr.
Bakhram H. Aliyev)) that the government intended to put more emphasis and on the agrarian sector and that the government had work out plans for the development of the agrarian sector including future challenges and means. The document was, however, not available in English which makes it difficult to know what the government future plans for developing the sector is. For me this would have been a basic document regarding our future cooperation on research and higher education in agriculture. We clearly expressed to the deputy that a fruitful future cooperation was dependent on the government will to contribute with money to our future cooperation in the agrarian sector.
It can be noticed that even at the ministry few people seems to be able to communicate in english and that the infrastructure regarding use of PC, electronic communication and intranet was not very well developed at the MA.
For me the visit to ME was somewhat disappointing in that the Gulu Novruzov, head of international relationship at the ministry, could not put money into future cooperation on education
Appendix 6: Report by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erling Thuen, UMB, IHA
