What reforms are needed to strengthen school–industry partnerships in Azerbaijan’s general education system to enhance students’ practical skills, career readiness, and future employability?

Abstract

This study examines the reforms required to strengthen school–industry partnerships in Azerbaijan’s general education system. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research analyses current practices, identifies structural and institutional barriers, and explores stakeholder perceptions to develop a contextually grounded framework for sustainable collaboration. The findings reveal fragmented partnership activity, constrained by curricular rigidity, governance gaps, teacher readiness challenges, and significant regional disparities. Policy recommendations include establishing a national partnership framework, enhancing industry incentives, integrating applied learning into the curriculum, strengthening teacher development, and creating digital and regional intermediary structures. The study contributes to theoretical debates on partnership governance in transition economies and offers a forward-looking roadmap for aligning general education with the demands of modern labour markets.