Teaching English in Azerbaijan

The following comments are from teachers who have taught, or are currently teaching, in Azerbaijan. If you are a teacher and have some advice to share, please add it here.

Dean on 28 May 2007

quote Hi, I lived in Baku, Azerbaijan several years ago. I did not really enjoy the experience, I found the roads extremely dangerous. The elections were taking place when I was there and several people were shot outside my hotel. It all seems normal in Baku!! On a happier note the food was excellent, some of the buildings are amazing.

Anonymous on 21 September 2007

quote I am currently a Peace Corps Volunteer and must state a disclaimer that my opinion does not represent all volunteers, the US Gov, Peace Corps, or the people of Azerbaijan. However, I would like to personally state that teaching English in Azerbaijan requires a lot of patience.

This culture is adjusting to some of the most difficult changes a country can experience. When you keep in mind that Azerbaijan has only been a country since 1991, it is difficult for most people to realize all of the change that encompasses. Not only is the country changing currency, but it is also changing its language back to Azeri from Russian. This means that with the change from a former soviet country, they want progress as well but are unsure how to actually develop as a nation.

Many of the youth are motivated to learn English (especially the college age youth) and don't know how to do it. The education system does not support the type of style that we are familiar and comfortable with using and teaching. You must therefore be patient, and give it time.

If you are considering coming to Azerbaijan to teach English, I would recommend leaving Baku. Baku doesn't need your help; the rayon's need your help. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of small town village life, consider Ganja as an alternative since it was the former capital and has many of the same amenities that the capital can offer you. But know this; Azerbaijan is not like most of Eastern Asia or Eastern Europe. It is still going through a lot of change... just be patient and stick with it. Focus on developing relationships before you focus on teaching English, that is how you will be successful here.

Anonymous on 28 April 2008

quote I worked in Baku and lasted 6 months. The students were great but generally people were not very friendly. At time of writing (2008) the country is going through a lot of changes and is still emerging from being a Soviet state. The infrastructure that was developed in the Soviet period is crumbling - badly! The place is very very dusty and dirty. Men and women lead very separate lives - women (unless they are 'bad') don't go into bars. English is not widely spoken - despite the presence of numerous foreign oil companies. There is plenty of work for teachers! There are shops but clothes, food and rent all cost a lot - inflation is running at over 16%. As a female teacher I'll notch this country up as an interesting but not to be repeated experience.