On June 24, a solemn “Graduation Day” event dedicated to the graduates of the 2025/2026 academic year was held at the Azerbaijan State Maritime Academy (ASMA). The event was attended by the ASMA leadership, faculty members, graduates, parents, and guests.
According to sea-news.az the ceremony began with the playing of the National Anthem and a minute of silence in memory of martyrs and seafarers who lost their lives while fulfilling their service duties. Afterward, a jubilee video of the Academy and a short film dedicated to the history of maritime education were screened.
A Landmark Graduation in a 145-Year History
Speaking at the event, Eldar Gojayev, Acting Rector of ASMA, emphasized that this year’s graduation coincides with the 145th anniversary of Azerbaijani maritime education and the 30th anniversary of ASMA, and wished the graduates success in their future endeavors.
Faculty deans Rafiq Asgarov and Elnur Abbasov, along with department head Asadullah Suleymanov, highlighted that the young seafarers possess the capabilities to work on vessels sailing international waters and represent our country worthily on the global stage. Speakers representing parents and graduates also expressed their gratitude to the Academy’s staff.
Awarding of Top-Performing Graduates
During the event, eight students who achieved the highest results in their specialties based on their Grade Point Average (GPA) were presented with “Honorary Graduate” certificates by the ASMA leadership:
- Novruzali Amirbayov (Group 204MR)
- Nihad Ilyasov (Group 184M)
- Rasul Isgandarov (Group 052I)
- Murad Alasgarov (Group 102A)
- Farrukh Musayev (Group 092A)
- Dashgin Guliyev (Group 072A)
- Fuad Sabzaliyev (Group 194M)
- Fazil Dostiyev (Group 364M)
The event continued with musical performances, intellectual quizzes, and an entertainment program. At the end, Vice-Rector Irada Suleymanova congratulated the graduates. The “Graduation Day” concluded with the symbolic handing over of the key to the lower-year students, the ringing of the graduation bell, and the traditional cap-throwing ceremony.
