Afət Ziyadqızı
The Education Ministry’s last-minute decision to switch teaching at higher education institutions to distance learning from Sept. 23 to 25 due to the Formula 1 race has sparked widespread discussion among the public and students. Although road closures had been known in advance, the decision was announced late at night, raising questions about the response time and the quality of education.
Speaking to Operative Information Center-OMM, Azerbaijani language and literature teacher and tutor Muradkhan Huseynov said the measure was necessary amid the existing transport congestion, regardless of when it was announced:
“This was an expected decision. There was excessive congestion on the roads, creating major difficulties for people, especially students, in reaching their destinations on time. I believe the decision is completely justified. Rather than spending hours stuck in traffic, it is more appropriate for students to continue their education online from home.”
The expert proposed introducing a longer-term online model until the transport infrastructure is fully improved and also recalled the experience of the pandemic:
“I would even like classes at universities to continue online until the traffic congestion in the city and overcrowding in the metro are resolved, even if that takes a year. This would ensure people’s freedom of movement in the city while reducing tension and discontent. During the pandemic, classes were held remotely for approximately two years. Even if this is not continued in secondary schools, it could at least be maintained in higher education institutions.”
The delayed announcement caused some confusion among students. However, experts stress that switching to distance learning is the most effective short-term way to address the transport crisis in Baku. Formula 1 events often require temporary road restrictions and special traffic arrangements, making coordination between transport and education authorities important for minimizing disruption.
