On August 4, the closing ceremony of the CLS English Program, a joint project of the American Council and the US Department of State, was held by the Vice-Rector for International Relations, Associate Professor Jale Garibova at the Azerbaijan University of Languages (AUL).

US Embassy Officer Ray Neyler, Director of the US Consulate in Azerbaijan Jody Blakenship, teachers of Azerbaijani language, linguists, as well as American students participated in the closing ceremony.

Noting that American students who have learned Azerbaijani language have been able to overcome this problem, Garibova said that 7 American students have been acquainted with the culture, language and history of the Azerbaijani people for eight weeks. Noting that the students have great interest in studying this language, Garibova said she was loyal to the tradition and hoped for continued relations. Garibova expressed gratitude to the supporters of the program and wished success to the students.

US Embassy Officer Ray Neyler, Director of the US Consulate in Azerbaijan Jody Blakenship thanked the university administration and those who contributed for the opportunity to students and wished them success.

Later, the teachers of the Azerbaijani language, as well as the parents shared their impressions.

Then, American students shared their impressions about our country and performed the song  "Payiz geldi" (Autumn has come)music by Emin Sabitoghlu and the words by Fikret Goja.

A video clip of photographs taken during the visit of American students to different historical monuments in Baku and regions and during the classroom was shown.

In the end, gifts were presented to American students, language colleagues and teachers teaching Azerbaijani language.

It should be noted that American students learning Azerbaijani language within the "CLS Azerbaijani" (Critical Language Scholarship) Program visited Maiden Tower in Baku, Volcano, Shirvan Palace, Temple of Fire, mud volcanoes, Gala Archeological and Ethnographic Museum Complex, as well as museums and other sightseeing places. During the visit the students were familiar with historic monuments, traditions, and people of these areas. The students learned the rules of preparation of the pole, familiarizing with the Azerbaijani cuisine. Lectures on language and culture were also organized during the program.