Azerbaijani language lessons have officially launched on a free virtual learning platform under China’s national online education initiative, supported by Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU). The platform, part of the Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) alliance initiated by BFSU, offers Chinese learners the opportunity to study foreign languages, including Azerbaijani, at the beginner level through modern digital tools.

Aqshin Aliyev, head of the Azerbaijani Language Department at BFSU, PhD in philology, and project leader, has conducted 12 virtual lessons covering Azerbaijani grammar, vocabulary, common phrases, short dialogues, and texts. Each lesson also includes a cultural segment introducing Azerbaijani literature, music, and the traditional art of carpet weaving.

The platform, which provides free access to those interested in learning foreign languages and exploring global cultures, has already served more than 4 million students from over 1,000 universities across China. The initiative stands out as the first of its kind in the country in terms of scale and accessibility.

BFSU, one of China’s leading higher education institutions in foreign language instruction, established its Azerbaijani Language Department in 2016. Initially introduced as a third-language option, Azerbaijani has been recognized as a full academic specialty at the university since 2018 by decision of China’s Ministry of Education.