Employment of university graduates in Azerbaijan

Abstract

Abstract: The main purpose of the study is to identify and interpret key trends in employment of university graduates in Azerbaijan within the school-to-work transition. The paper examines shifts in the gender composition of employment, the sectoral distribution of graduate jobs, and patterns in time to first job. The analysis relies on a descriptive assessment of dynamics and structural changes in the indicators, complemented by comparative analysis and logical generalisation. The results indicate improved integration of graduates into employment, gradual convergence of male and female trajectories, and a persistent predominance of the non-state sector among employers and graduate jobs. Time-to-job patterns suggest a reduction in prolonged job search and a stronger concentration of early entry into work. These regularities emphasise the importance of tracking not only employment status but also the characteristics of first employment. The scientific novelty of the article lies in comparing university graduates’ time to employment in the state and non-state sectors of the economy, their gender structure, and graduates’ pay levels.