C4IR | Impact On The Ground | Azerbaijan is transforming and upskilling its workforce with free online education

This video is part of: Centre for Frontier Technologies and Innovation

Launched in 2021, Azerbaijan’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) is accelerating the country’s shift to a digital economy. Fariz Jafarov, Director of C4IR Azerbaijan, explains how the initiative is advancing AI, data science and other emerging technologies across industries, while equipping a diverse workforce with the skills to thrive. Through the Fourth Industrial Revolution Academy, and in partnership with Coursera, C4IR Azerbaijan has provided 10,000+ citizens with access to 800+ courses – entirely for free. From AI in call centres to digital twins for businesses, these reskilling and upskilling opportunities aim to develop a competitive workforce and modern innovation ecosystem, in line with ‘Azerbaijan 2030’ national priorities.

Established in 2021, Azerbaijan’s Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) is driving the country’s digital transformation. The initiative focuses on developing a digital economy strategy and fostering the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

Upskilling for the future

To build a competitive workforce, C4IR has partnered with Coursera, offering free access to over 800 courses on AI, data science, digital transformation, and soft skills.

So far, more than 10000 citizens have completed courses, earning over 4,200 certificates. The program benefits a diverse range of participants, including women, the unemployed, civil servants, and even children as young as nine.

Expanding opportunities

C4IR aims to reach 200,000 citizens and plans to translate all 8,000 Coursera courses into Azerbaijani. Additionally, it will establish specialized academies focused on startups, climate and environment, teachers, and students.

A digital-ready Azerbaijan by 2030

By equipping citizens with essential skills, C4IR supports Azerbaijan’s "Azerbaijan 2030" national priorities, ensuring a workforce ready to navigate the digital economy and drive innovation.