Azerbaijan’s teacher receives Japan’s prestigious Order of Rising Sun Photo

Esmira Mammadova, a Japanese language teacher at Baku Secondary School No. 225, has been awarded Japan’s highest state honour, the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, in recognition of her efforts to promote Japanese language and culture in Azerbaijan.

The award ceremony was held at the residence of Japan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Katsuya Watanabe, in Baku. During the event, Ambassador Watanabe praised Mammadova for her dedication and significant contributions to strengthening cultural and educational ties between the two countries, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

Mammadova has played a key role in introducing Japanese into Azerbaijan’s secondary education system. In 2009, the Ministry of Education launched a pilot programme teaching Japanese in three state schools, including School No. 225. Today, the school remains the only institution in Azerbaijan where Japanese is continuously offered as a formal school subject.

The Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, was established in 1875 and is awarded to individuals who have made distinguished contributions to international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, and advancements in their respective fields. The decoration features a red enamel cabochon representing the sun, inspired by Japan’s national flag, and a pendant shaped like the paulownia crest with green leaves and purple flowers.

By Sabina Mammadli