Mountain Tourism: Shahdag Tourism Center officially kicked off its 2026 summer season, leaning into year-round nature travel, active recreation, and family-friendly outdoor experiences, with sports events planned to boost eco and mountain tourism. Ecology & Heritage of Place: Geobotany researchers studied the Shirvan Plain’s plant cover across several districts, tracking degradation, desertification pressures, and shifts in ecosystems—from saline communities to Artemisia and other vegetation changes. Education Growth: Undergraduate admissions rose 18% over four years, with 60,860 students taking up 98.4% of available places in 2025/26; master’s admissions also climbed to 14,335. Great Return in Education: Under the “Great Return” State Program, preschool and school education expanded in liberated territories, alongside the growth of Karabakh University, including new faculties and a clinic. Culture Abroad: Azerbaijan’s culinary heritage got a spotlight in Paris with a dolma masterclass at the Azerbaijani Embassy cultural center, led by food blogger Ulviyya Mammadli. Teaching Community: Registration opened for the 6th Teachers’ Networking Forum (July 4, Gakh), aiming to connect educators across regions around shared educational values. Academic Law & Sports/Tourism: Baku State University hosted master’s thesis defenses in Sports Law and Tourism Law, chaired by Azerbaijan Bar Association head Anar Baghirov. International Cultural Science: Azerbaijan’s National Academy of Sciences met Vatican Library and Archive officials, discussing cooperation amid renewed focus on protecting cultural heritage. Armed Forces Day Lifestyle: Seaside National Park ceremonies unveiled a renovated “Boulevard Sports Club” and the “WasteShark” floating water-cleaning device as part of recreation and environmental efforts.