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Teaching English in Azerbaijan
Teachers' advice > Azerbaijan
teaching english in azerbaijan
"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."
Anonymous, 28/04/08
"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, 21/09/07
"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."
Posted by Dean, 28/05/07
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Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan Lonely Planet
This is the only travel guide to cover all three countries of the South
Caucasus. It details the fascinating history and absorbing culture of the
region, as well as providing practical information on safety concerns and border
crossings.
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