Designed to cultivate the specialized competencies required by the ongoing energy transition, the Sustainability Certificate Program organized by SOCAR Turkey in collaboration with Istanbul Technical University (ITU) has graduated its first cohort. Coordinated through the ITU Continuing Education Center, successful participants received their certificates from SOCAR Turkey CEO Elchin Ibadov and ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal.
9 Core Modules Blending Academic Rigor with Industry Experience
Key parameters of the professional executive development program include:
Target Audience: Structured for mid- to senior-level industry professionals possessing 4 to 10 years of experience.
Comprehensive Syllabus: Spanned 9 specialized modules addressing energy transition, carbon management, green finance, sustainability reporting standards, and environmental governance.
Delivery Model: Conducted primarily online, complemented by in-person opening and closing panel sessions.
Industry-Academia Integration: Combined theoretical instruction delivered by ITU faculty members with operational insights presented by SOCAR Turkey executives and external industry leaders.
Dual Certification: Participants completing the assessment criteria received a formal Certificate of Achievement co-signed by SOCAR Turkey and ITU.
Launch of the Industry Reference Book: "Port Revenue Accounts"
Following the graduation proceedings, the executive authors presented the specialized book titled "Port Revenue Accounts."
Authored by SOCAR Terminal CFO Kutlu Vardar and SOCAR Terminal Commercial Receivables Manager Mehmet Dağduran, with academic contributions from the faculty of the ITU Maritime Faculty, the publication serves as a operational handbook for maritime logistics stakeholders. It addresses practical calculations, recurring operational risks, and real-world port management practices.

Statement from SOCAR Turkey CEO Elchin Ibadov
Elchin Ibadov, CEO of SOCAR Turkey, commented:
“The energy sector is undergoing a multi-dimensional transformation shaped by sustainability targets, technological innovation, and shifting global demands. We believe one of the most critical elements for this transformation to succeed is a qualified talent pool capable of understanding and managing change. Through the Sustainability Certificate Program launched with ITU, we aimed to bridge academic knowledge with sector experience to enhance professionals' capabilities for future industry demands. We congratulate all participants who earned their certificates and trust they will deliver valuable contributions to the sustainability landscape.”