News

The Institute for Development and Diplomacy (IDD) at ADA University, in partnership with the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), is pleased to announce the Baku Summer Energy School (BSES) 2026: 20th Anniversary Edition.

BSES is a two-week annual certificate program uniting world-class scholars, academics, and policymakers for rigorous dialogue on global energy dynamics and Caspian affairs.

In 2026, BSES proudly celebrates two decades of fostering global dialogue on energy, sustainability, and innovation across the Caspian region and beyond. This milestone edition will place a special emphasis on Energy Security & Innovation, exploring how evolving policies, market dynamics, technological breakthroughs, and regional developments are transforming the future of global energy systems.

Dates & Venue

6–17 July 2026
ADA University Campus, Baku and Karabakh, Azerbaijan

The Program Overview can be downloaded here.

WHO ARE THE BSES INSTRUCTORS AND SPEAKERS?

The program provides a balanced and comprehensive approach to studying energy and the environment. BSES instructors and speakers are leading national and international experts from academia, public institutions, and the private sector:

• World-renowned scholars in the field of energy and the environment from leading academic institutions, including the University of Oxford, Johns Hopkins University, Georgetown University, ADA University, and others.

• Ministers and heads of governmental agencies, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Energy, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, and the Head of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan(SOFAZ).

• Representatives of international organizations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), International Energy Charter, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and others.

• Executives of major energy companies and consortiums, including SOCAR, bp, ExxonMobil, Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP), Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), and others.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

BSES is organized for mid-career professionals and early career academicians working in the field of energy and the environment and/or with a particular interest in post-Soviet Eurasia and the Caspian region.

Please note that the program requires full proficiency in English.

HOW TO APPLY?

To apply for the Baku Summer Energy School, all applicants are required to submit their applications by 01 April 2026.

APPLY NOW

Application Deadline: 01 April 2026

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Up-to-date resume/CV

• Statement of purpose (In no more than 400 words, please describe your motivation for applying to the Baku Summer Energy School program. Tell us about your future goals and career aspirations, and how the BSES program fits into that vision.)

• Copy of ID (Foreign passport scan for international applicants/ID scan for local applicants)

• Photo of good quality

• Scholarship application letter (optional)

• Incomplete applications, as well as applications submitted after the deadline, will not be considered.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The tuition fee for the 2026 Baku Summer Energy School is 3100 USD.

The fee includes field trip–related costs, as well as all receptions, lunches, and coffee breaks.

The IDD offers a limited number of partial and full scholarships to outstanding participants based on financial need and merit. Applicants seeking financial support must submit a Scholarship Application Letter explaining the reasons for being considered for IDD Financial Aid.

Please note:

• The scholarship letter must not exceed 400 words (minimum 200 words).

• This document is required only for applicants seeking financial support.

HOW IS THE SELECTION PROCESS CONDUCTED?

All applications received by the deadline will be reviewed by the BSES Selection Committee at ADA University.

Due to strong demand and a highly selective process, enrollment is limited to 40 participants. Admission decisions will reflect a competitive evaluation of applicants with demonstrated passion for energy and environmental issues, academic achievement, and relevant professional experience.

A limited number of full and partial tuition scholarships will be awarded to outstanding candidates based on merit and financial need. Priority consideration will be given to self-funded applicants.

For additional information, please contact bses@ada.edu.az.