The first internet, the first website, and a 55-year history: The Institute of Information Technology

Discussions were held regarding the 55th anniversary of the establishment of the Institute of Information Technology of the Ministry of Science and Education. The institution's historical trajectory and its scientific achievements in advancing information and communication technologies within the country were comprehensively reviewed.

AZERTAC reports that speaking at the event, Academician Rasim Alguliyev, Vice-President of ANAS and Director General of the institute, shed light on the history of the scientific institution's establishment. The Academician noted that the foundation of this organization traces back to the Department of Automated Control Systems (ACS Department), which was established in 1971 under the Institute of Cybernetics of ANAS. Since 1982, the ACS Department has operated as an independent legal entity. In 1997, the Information-Telecommunication Scientific Center (ITSC) was established on the basis of the ACS Department. Subsequently, on May 21, 2002, the Institute of Information Technology was organized on the basis of the ITSC.

The scientist noted that this scientific institution, established on the initiative of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and continually developed under his attention and care, is one of the main centers providing intellectual support to Azerbaijan's ICT industry. The primary objective in establishing the initial structure that forms the foundation of the institute was to provide scientific and methodical support for the application of mathematical methods, computational techniques, and computer technologies in state administration bodies, ministries, committees, socio-economic sectors, and production associations. Additionally, it aimed to ensure the design and implementation of automated management and information processing systems at various levels.

"During that period, this activity effectively served to form the initial scientific foundations for building a digital government in the country," stated the Director General of the institute. He further noted that the research conducted in this specific direction laid the groundwork for establishing network technologies, diverse information systems, and computing centers across the republic. Consequently, purposeful measures were implemented to train highly qualified national personnel in the field of informatics, leading to significant achievements.

The scientist pointed out that within the framework of scientific research conducted in the 1980s, special attention was paid to the creation of computer networks, and significant work was done to interconnect various computing centers across the republic. He noted that Azerbaijan's very first internet access was achieved in 1991 within this institution by a group of scientists and specialists. Furthermore, the country's first website, science.gov.az, was developed by the institute's specialists in 1995.

Academician Rasim Alguliyev emphasized that during the years of independence, particularly against the backdrop of the technological policy implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the institute's fields of activity expanded even further. The scientist stated that research is currently being conducted at the institute in priority areas serving the strategic interests of the state, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, software engineering, natural language processing, cyber-physical systems, digital state, digital medicine, cybersecurity, and deep learning.

The event spotlighted the academic activities and key achievements of the scientists and experts who contributed to the institute's formation and growth. Additionally, reports highlighted the fundamental and applied research conducted on critical challenges within the information society and technology. It was noted that during its more than half-century history, the Institute of Information Technology has played a pivotal role in integrating Azerbaijani science into the international research arena. The institution has also been key to training highly qualified personnel and strengthening intellectual support for the country’s sustainable development. Furthermore, it has successfully established the scientific foundations of the information society and accelerated digital transformation processes.