bp and the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University (ASOIU) have today signed an agreement to work together to start a new higher education degree in renewable energy sources.

The document was signed by bp’s vice president for the Caspian region, communications and advocacy Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli and Rector of ASOIU Mustafa Babanli.

The agreement is underpinned by bp’s two-million-dollar social investment initiative aimed at developing the next generation of national engineers specialising in renewable energy.

This will be a brand-new academic course of study for the country allowing the university to commence training professionals who will support Azerbaijan’s energy transition efforts and drive its new energy era.

The agreement follows the Protocol of Intent earlier signed by bp and the Ministry of Education to cooperate in developing a university degree in renewable energy related disciplines at one of the local universities through partnership with a UK university. It has been decided to base the course at ASOIU – one of Azerbaijan’s leading universities with over a century-long experience in training oil and gas engineers.