On May 18–19, 2026, the 1st International Scientific Conference on “Digital Challenges of the 21st Century: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Sustainable Energy and Human Capital” was held online at Mingachevir State University as part of the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” and dedicated to May 17 – World Telecommunication Day.
The main purpose of the conference was to strengthen international scientific dialogue on the academic discussion of digital transformation processes, the study of modern approaches in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, the application of sustainable energy solutions, the development of “smart city” concepts, and the qualitative enhancement of human capital.
Organized in line with MSU’s activities aimed at expanding international cooperation, developing digital knowledge and skills, promoting innovative thinking, and contributing to sustainable development goals, the conference brought together scholars and researchers from higher education institutions of various countries, specialists in relevant fields, and representatives of the academic community.
The first panel session of the conference was moderated by Professor Ayhan Erdem of the Faculty of Technology at Gazi University. At the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by Nedim Sözbir, Rector of Düzce University; Serhat Karyeyen, Vice-Rector of Gazi University; Natavan Namazova, Vice-Rector of Mingachevir State University; Elvin Balajanov, representative of the National Cyber Center of the State Security Service; and Aida Mustafayeva, Director of MSU’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies.
The speeches highlighted the strategic importance of digital development in the modern era, the relevance of scientific research conducted in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, the need to strengthen university–industry–government cooperation, and the responsibilities of higher education institutions in developing human capital.
Within the framework of the first panel, Professor Ayhan Erdem of Gazi University delivered a presentation on artificial intelligence and the platform economy. Professor Resul Kara of Düzce University presented a scientific overview of artificial intelligence research in Türkiye. Professor Köksal Erentürk of Atatürk University shared his views on AI-based energy systems, investment strategies, and cybersecurity risks. Professor M. Ali Akçayol of Gazi University analyzed future development trends of artificial intelligence technologies. Maryam Asadova, an employee of Mingachevir State University, delivered a presentation on the application possibilities of artificial intelligence in the context of “smart city” infrastructure and sustainable urban development.
The second panel session of the conference continued under the moderation of Associate Professor Aida Mustafayeva, Director of MSU’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies. During the panel, Rahib Imamverdiyev, representative of Baku Business University, presented approaches to explainable artificial intelligence in cybersecurity. Associate Professor Fuat Türk of Gazi University discussed the application possibilities of artificial intelligence and machine learning in healthcare. Professor Gökce Yılmaz of TED University delivered a presentation on real-world applications of artificial intelligence.
In addition, Professor Mehmet Sevri of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University spoke about new challenges created by artificial intelligence agents in cybersecurity, while Associate Professor Saadin Oyucu of Gazi University provided a scientific interpretation of digital skills and human capital development. Narmin Ahmadova, an employee of Mingachevir State University, delivered a presentation on cybersecurity risks and strategies for their management.
Within the framework of the panel sessions, scientific discussions were held on the application of artificial intelligence technologies in various fields, new risks and challenges in the cybersecurity environment, the development of sustainable energy systems, the formation of digital skills, the strengthening of human capital, and the expansion of the innovation ecosystem.
At the conclusion of the conference, it was noted that the expansion of international scientific cooperation in the areas of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, sustainable energy, and human capital makes an important contribution to accelerating digital transformation processes, implementing innovative solutions, and strengthening the global scientific integration of higher education institutions.
Mingachevir State University plans to continue its activities aimed at developing a research environment that responds to digital challenges, expanding international partnership relations, and supporting academic initiatives in the fields of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.