A new article by Lika Merabishvili, Regional Director for the Caucasus at StrategEast, published in Azeri Observer, explores how Azerbaijan is accelerating its digital transformation and positioning itself as a technology hub of the South Caucasus.
In the article titled “Azerbaijan’s Digital Leap: Shaping the South Caucasus Tech Hub,” Ms Merabishvili examines the country’s transition from an energy-driven economy toward a diversified, innovation-focused digital ecosystem. The analysis highlights Azerbaijan’s strategic investments in human capital, technology education, and startup development, as well as the growing role of international partnerships with global technology companies and development institutions.
The article also reviews several major initiatives shaping the country’s tech landscape, including the IT Hub Azerbaijan program, collaborations with global companies such as Microsoft, and new educational initiatives integrating international training ecosystems into Azerbaijani universities. These efforts aim to expand opportunities beyond the capital and prepare a new generation of technology professionals across the country.
Ms Merabishvili also notes the importance of Baku as an emerging regional technology platform, particularly following the hosting of the StrategEast State and IT Eurasian Forum, which brought global technology leaders, investors, and policymakers together to discuss artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
The article concludes that with continued investment in education, international collaboration, and innovation ecosystems, Azerbaijan has strong potential to become a leading technology hub in the broader Central Eurasia region.
