Aspirations and Ambitions: A Comprehensive Survey Unveils the Career Dreams of Azerbaijani Elementary School Students

A recent survey conducted by the Agora analytical team sheds light on the career aspirations of elementary school students (grades 1-4) in Azerbaijan. From October 18 to November 18, 2023, the face-to-face survey engaged 861 students across various regions, aiming to discern their future professional preferences and assess the impact of factors such as residence (capital vs. provinces) and language of instruction (Azerbaijani, Russian, and English).

The respondents, comprising 53% boys and 47% girls, voiced a diverse range of 60 different professions. Notably, 46% (392 individuals) hailed from the Absheron Peninsula, while 56% (469 individuals) represented other regions. The results indicate variations in the number of professions chosen based on the respondents' place of residence, language of instruction, and gender.

Students from the Absheron Peninsula, notably, expressed a broader spectrum of career aspirations, naming 52 different professions, compared to the 35 professions named by their counterparts in other regions. This suggests a more varied approach to career choices among Absheron students, with one in eight naming a different profession, as opposed to one in 13 students in the regions.

Professions such as "Youtuber," "scientist," "basketball player," "CEO," "architect," and others were prominently mentioned by students residing on the Absheron Peninsula. However, the survey also revealed a regional pattern in career preferences, with a focus on law enforcement, medicine, education, the military, and art.

Among male students in regional schools, the most popular profession was aspiring to be a policeman (45%), followed by a military career (22%) and teaching (6%). Female students in the regions predominantly leaned towards teaching (39%) and medicine (38%), with policing emerging as the top choice for only 9% of female students.

The analysis of responses based on language of instruction highlighted that policing and military professions remained popular choices for boys, regardless of whether they studied in Azerbaijani on the Absheron Peninsula or in regional schools. For female students studying in English and Russian, medicine emerged as the predominant choice, consistent with the broader trend observed among all female students.

The survey outcomes offer valuable insights into the career aspirations of Azerbaijani primary school students, reflecting the diverse influences shaping their dreams and choices. As the younger generation contemplates their future paths, these insights can inform educational strategies and career guidance initiatives.