BAKU, July 21 — Vocational education is gaining momentum among young women in Azerbaijan. According to recent figures, the share of female students in vocational institutions rose from 29.6% in 2021 to 40% in 2025 — a notable leap in just four years. In some centers, like the one in Lankaran, women now make up half of all graduates for the first time.
These figures were shared during a briefing organized by Azerbaijan’s State Agency for Vocational Education.
Agency Director Jeyhun Keremov highlighted regional progress as another positive development: “Sixty percent of admissions are now allocated to vocational schools in the regions, while 40% are based in the capital. We’re seeing continued strong interest in fields such as culinary arts, garment tailoring, electrical installation, accounting, and hairdressing.”
The shift reflects changing attitudes among both students and families, as vocational education becomes a more viable path to employment and financial independence. Observers note that the growing participation of women in traditionally male-dominated technical fields is also helping break gender stereotypes in the labor market.
Government officials say they plan to further expand vocational programs and promote awareness in secondary schools, especially in rural areas, to ensure broader and more inclusive access to technical training.
