Innovator: Elvin Mejidov - https://az.linkedin.com/in/mr-elvin-mejidov
Organisation: Academy of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ASCCA), Baku
Description of the practice:
As the Project Author and Academic Coordinator of the Jean Monnet Module “Advancing the European Union Studies at the Azerbaijan Customs Academy” (EURASCCA), I lead a pioneering initiative that transforms EU education within the Customs Academy in Azerbaijan. Selected by the European Commission in August 2022 after being written in February 2022, this project operates from 2023 through 2026 at the Academy of State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan (ASCCA). The EURASCCA project addresses the critical challenge of integrating multidisciplinary EU studies into a sector traditionally focused on operational and regulatory aspects, thereby equipping Customs professionals with broader analytical and strategic competencies.
The innovation of the EURASCCA project is multifaceted. At its core, the project introduces new academic courses covering a wide range of EU-related subjects such as European integration, EU law, foreign policy, European Neighborhood Policy, and the Eastern Partnership. This multidisciplinary approach not only provides foundational knowledge but also fosters analytical insights and policy research that address economic, trade, and Customs-related issues in EU-Azerbaijan relations. In doing so, the project bridges the gap between theoretical academic content and its practical application — a gap that has long hindered the modernization and internationalization of Customs education in Azerbaijan.
In my dual role as an academic leader and instructor, I spearhead innovative teaching practices that emphasize active learning and real-world engagement. I develop and deliver a new Jean Monnet course specifically focused on EU Foreign Policy, the Eastern Partnership, and EU-Azerbaijan relations. This course, tailored for both Customs students and Customs officers, ensures that participants from various professional backgrounds benefit from a deeper understanding of EU dynamics and their implications for the Customs sector. My role transcends traditional lecturing; I act as a facilitator, mentor, and coach, guiding learners to critically engage with the course material through interactive discussions, case studies, and policy simulation exercises.
The learning activities within the EURASCCA project are purposefully diverse and innovative. They include interactive lectures, group projects, problem-based learning modules, and hands-on workshops that challenge participants to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. These activities enhance critical thinking, collaborative problem solving, and the development of analytical skills essential for addressing complex international trade issues. In addition, online discussion forums and reflective sessions integrate seamlessly into the curriculum, enabling learners to share insights, debate ideas, and develop a comprehensive understanding of EU policies and their impact on the Customs sector.
The impact of the EURASCCA project remains far-reaching. By fostering a multidisciplinary approach to EU studies and integrating innovative learning methodologies, the project enriches the academic experience and strengthens the professional competencies of Customs personnel in Azerbaijan. Graduates of the program emerge better prepared to navigate and influence EU-Azerbaijan relations, thereby contributing to more informed policy-making and strategic decision-making within the Customs community.
In summary, my role as an innovative expert in the EURASCCA project reflects a steadfast commitment to transforming Customs education through the integration of cutting-edge EU studies into the curriculum. Through the development and delivery of pioneering academic courses and the implementation of diverse, interactive learning activities, the EURASCCA project makes a lasting impact on the professional landscape.
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