Dilara Rustamzada has been honored as Tech Woman of Azerbaijan 2021, becoming the first woman in the country to receive this prestigious title. This recognition celebrates her groundbreaking leadership and contributions to revolutionizing education through digital transformation, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the sudden disruption of education, Dilara led the charge in creating and implementing the Virtual School Project, a comprehensive digital platform that ensured education remained accessible across Azerbaijan. Her leadership was critical in deploying this platform, which served over 1.2 million students and 100,000 educators nationwide. She oversaw the entire process, from its initial concept to its widespread implementation, offering teachers digital tools and facilitating real-time interactions between students and instructors. This initiative not only provided a solution for continued learning but also shaped the future of education by making it more accessible to students in both urban and rural areas.
The award, decided by a panel of experts from the Ministry of Education and digital transformation authorities, recognized Dilara’s innovative approach to solving a national crisis and her ability to successfully scale a project of immense scope. Her efforts in navigating the complex challenges of remote education demonstrated remarkable foresight and quick action, making her a key figure in Azerbaijan’s educational evolution.
Dilara was also celebrated for her commitment to ensuring that the Virtual School Project was inclusive, focusing on bridging the digital divide. By providing digital resources and training for both educators and students, she made sure that no one was left behind, regardless of socioeconomic background. This focus on accessibility continues to shape long-term educational reforms in Azerbaijan.
Additionally, Dilara's recognition as the Tech Woman of Azerbaijan 2021 highlights her pioneering role in empowering women within the technology field. As the first Azerbaijani woman to receive this honor, she has inspired many others to explore careers in technology and innovation. Her impact extends beyond education, influencing national policy and setting the stage for future progress in the country’s EdTech sector.
This prestigious award reflects Dilara's outstanding leadership, her dedication to advancing technology for the public good, and her trailblazing efforts in empowering future generations through education. Her achievements during the COVID-19 crisis are a testament to the power of innovation and resilience, inspiring people worldwide to use technology to create meaningful change.