Baku, 29 September - 3 October 2026 — The Digitalization and Research Capacity Building Training Programme for Researchers and Early-Career Policy Professionals from CICA Member States successfully concluded in Baku on 3 October.
Organized by ADA University, in its capacity as Chair of the Coordination Council of the CICA Partnership Network of Leading Universities (PNLU), the five-day programme brought together researchers and early-career policy professionals from CICA Member States to strengthen their digital research skills, research competencies and capacity to support evidence-based policymaking.
The programme focused on the application of digital technologies and innovative research approaches, including artificial intelligence and digital research tools, data management and analysis, research design and methodology, academic writing, policy analysis, research communication and policy brief development.
Addressing participants at the opening ceremony on 29 September, CICA Deputy Secretary General Mr. Farid Damirli emphasized the relevance of the programme to the priorities of the Azerbaijani Chairmanship of CICA under the theme “Stronger CICA: Connectivity, Digitalization, and Sustainable Growth in Asia.” He highlighted that digital transformation within CICA should be viewed not only through the advancement of technology, but also through the development of people, knowledge and connectivity.
CICA Deputy Secretary General Damirli underscored the importance of education, science, research and innovation as practical instruments of cooperation and confidence building among CICA Member States. He also noted that the programme contributes to the Azerbaijani Chairmanship’s efforts to make confidence building measures more practical and impactful, particularly in the human dimension.
Particular attention was given to the role of the CICA PNLU in advancing academic cooperation. The PNLU currently brings together around 190 universities from 13 CICA Member States and remains open to new members.
The training programme provided a practical example of this approach by connecting researchers and young policy professionals from different CICA Member States and creating opportunities for professional networking, knowledge exchange and the development of future research cooperation.
The programme also contributed to the implementation of CICA confidence building measures in the human dimension, particularly in the areas of education and science. By linking digitalization, research and innovation with policymaking, the initiative supported the development of participants’ capacity to generate policy-relevant research and contribute to evidence-based decision-making.
